CANTON – Canton’s new Police Chief Ryan Cole was sworn into office in November and wants residents to know that his department is “here to help, above all,” and wants to …
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BY JOSH DAVIS
North Country This Week
CANTON – Canton’s new Police Chief Ryan Cole was sworn into office in November and wants residents to know that his department is “here to help, above all,” and wants to build stronger relationships with the community.
The new chief said he is most looking forward to being able to continue to provide support and structure to the members of the Canton Police Department “so in turn, we, as a team, can continue to provide a service that is inclusive of all members of our community.”
Cole knows his work will not be easy, noting that Canton, “like many of the surrounding communities, continues to face the challenges of providing support and services to those suffering from mental health crises and substance addiction issues.”
Community focused
However, he says his department is “continually collaborating with community services and other agencies within St. Lawrence County and the Canton community to help connect people to resources and education.
“We strive to consistently provide our officers with the training they need to better help our community obtain the help they need and deserve,” he said.
Cole wants to remind the community that his department’s work should strengthen bonds between the public and police.
He said it is “important to know that police officers frequently deal with people during some of their worst moments in their lives and we do our best to approach every situation with empathy and compassion.”
“We are community members too, the uniform does not dehumanize us. He also said that safe communities are built on “a strong partnership” between the police and the public,” Cole added.
“Building a trusting relationship where information can easily be shared allows for a more effective and efficient police service. I look forward to working with everyone in the community and to help the Village of Canton be as safe as it can be.”
Local ties and education
Cole grew up in North Lawrence. He currently lives in Potsdam with his wife and two children.
Cole started his law enforcement journey at Monroe Community College, continuing his education at SUNY Canton, where he earned a degree in criminal justice.
His choice to pursue an internship with SUNY Canton’s David Sullivan Police Academy led to his first job offer from then-Canton Police Chief Lori McDougal. He has been with the department for 11 years.
“Law Enforcement has allowed me to be a part of something bigger than myself,” Cole said. “It continues to be a rewarding profession, with many challenging and humbling moments.”
Cole says his education has continued since joining Canton Police. He credits former Canton chiefs of police for helping him advance in the department, receiving training as a Juvenile Officer, Field Training Officer, Drug Task Force Narcotics Investigator, General Topics Instructor, and Firearms Instructor. He served as a sergeant before being promoted to chief.
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