Canton Township, Wayne County, Michigan

10/06/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/06/2022 11:14

Police Department announces the retirement of Deputy Chief Craig Wilsher

September 27, 2022 - The Canton Police Department announces the upcoming retirement of Deputy Chief Craig Wilsher, following his 24-year career with the agency.

Craig Wilsher started his career in Canton in 1998, following several years of law enforcement service with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office and the Detroit Police Department. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2008, Lieutenant in 2013, and Deputy Chief in 2017. Wilsher earned a Bachelor's Degree from Wayne State University, and Master's Degrees from both Madonna University and Eastern Michigan University. He is also a graduate of the Eastern Michigan University's Police Staff & Command School, and a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy Session 265.

Early in his career Wilsher served as a road patrol officer, simultaneously taking on several special assignments including that of investigator in the Detective Bureau. After his promotion to Sergeant, he rapidly advanced through the ranks of Lieutenant and Deputy Chief in just over eight years. During that time, he served as a shift commander in the patrol division, and was also selected for special assignments as the Detective Bureau Supervisor and the Special Services Lieutenant. For the past eight years, he has been designated as the department's accreditation manager, tasked with fulfilling and maintaining the highest standards in policing under the international Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). In his current role as Deputy Chief, Wilsher leads the department's patrol, investigative and support services divisions consisting of over 100 full-time sworn and non-sworn personnel. He also assists the Director of Police Services with the development and implementation of the department's budget, policies, procedures, special projects and internal affairs.

Throughout his career, Wilsher has been proactive in developing personnel and programs that embrace growth within the department. He has been integral in the creation and advancement of many progressive policing initiatives, including the department's body-worn camera system, employee well-being programs, the embedded social worker program and the Coalition for Inclusive Communities. Wilsher has maintained the highest level of professionalism in every aspect of his service with Canton, focusing on continual improvements within himself, the department, and the community he so proudly serves.

"Deputy Chief Wilsher's career is highlighted by selfless leadership. He has made sacrifices for our organization and profession, knowing how fortunate we are to serve as police officers for the Canton Community. In recognition of his professionalism, integrity, courage and devotion to our service, his career shall serve as a model for those who follow him. We thank him for his service, and wish him well on his next journey," said Chad Baugh, Director of Police Services.

###