Cochrane’s RCMP detachment has a familiar face holding the reins.
Staff Sgt. Waidson is a veteran at the local station, a face Cochrane and the surrounding area have been seeing for nearly nine years. Recently, his ranking has changed to, essentially becoming the commander of the local police division.
“My goal is to maintain the direction the detachment has been heading these past few years,” said Waidson, who has been a member of the local detachment for about nine years. “I’m quite familiar with the job and I don’t want to change too much, I think we’ve accomplished a lot.”
One of those accomplishments is increasing the police presence in the community, which Waidson said he wishes to continue developing.
Prior to landing his new role, Waidson had been looking after Cochrane’s rural detachment. In 2012, he said he began acting as staff sergeant while applications were sorted through to replace Sgt. Jason Seper, Waidson’s predecessor.
Waidson officially took over duties in December 2012.
His average day is busy, with tasks that include everything from ordering supplies and administration work, to taking care of the general day-to-day operations of the detachment — all while keeping a finger on investigations.
“Once and a while, I get to leave and be a policeman for a bit,” he added with a laugh. “Now, my first responsibility isn’t responding to calls.”
Before landing here, Waidson had travelled throughout Canada for his work, including positions in Hinton, Alta., Whitehorse, Yukon, Pelly Crossing, Yukon, Canso, N.S., and Cold Lake, Alta.
“I have 25 years of career coming up here soon,” he said. “It’s been a great career in six great places.”
Calling Cape Breton, N.S., home, Waidson said he was first inspired to become a policeman while witnessing the police presence in his hometown.
“Growing up in a small town, you knew the local police detachment. They always seemed like they liked their jobs,” he said. “Most people become policemen to help people and make a difference. That’s the best part of the job — when (the community) appreciates your contribution.”
Waidson and his wife have two children, both students at Cochrane High School.
“I’m looking forward to staying here for a little while,” said Waidson, who had previously been based in Cochrane’s rural areas.
“I want to become more of a fixture in the community. I hope to be staying here long after my career ends.”
