Image: International Association of Police Chiefs / Abbotsford Police Department Sgt. Paul Walker (centre) was recently awarded the prestigious International Association of Police Chiefs' Public Information Management Award for his leadership and crisis communication during the catastrophic flooding of 2021. Sgt. Walker worked to ensure open communication with the public during the catastrophic flooding of November 2021 that heavily impacted Abbotsford and Sumas Prairie. 

By Mike Vanden Bosch

AbbyPD Sgt. Paul Walker

AbbyPD Sgt. Paul Walker honoured for leadership, crisis communication during 2021 floods

Oct 18, 2023 | 9:12 AM

ABBOTSFORD — Abbotsford Police Department Sgt. Paul Walker was a steady hand and trusted communicator during the 2021 atmospheric river events that wreaked havoc in Sumas Prairie and Abbotsford.

In recognition of his core competencies, Sgt. Walker was awarded the prestigious International Association of Police Chiefs’ Public Information Management Award for his leadership and crisis communication during the catastrophic flooding of 2021.

Abbotsford Police Chief Constable Mike Serr previously praised Walker for his exemplary work.

“Paul’s first days in media were during the flood and he ensured open and transparent communication,” Abbotsford Police Chief Mike Serr said on Facebook. “That never wavered during his tenure; a community builder.”

Sgt. Walker has since moved on from his former role as media relations spokesperson for the AbbyPD and has taken on the role of sergeant in charge of the department’s Traffic Enforcement Unit.

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“This change came on a little sooner than expected, but I’m excited about the new challenges ahead,” Sgt. Walker said in an email in June 2023. “Thank you to each of you for your support and assistance during my time as the media officer. Although I’m not going far, if there is anything I can do to assist, please reach out.”

Constable Artur Stele has taken is now the full-time media spokesperson for the AbbyPD.