Saint John student becomes police chief for a day

There is a new person in charge of the Saint John Police Force — but just for one day.

Sophia Lord was sworn in as chief during a ceremony at police headquarters on Thursday.

The seven-year-old student won the Chief for a Day contest that was held earlier this year.

Lord had to submit an essay explaining how she would make a difference in the community.

“I like to help people,” the new chief said in an interview. “I help at my house for my farm. I also help my teachers a lot.”

Lord was picked up at school and driven to headquarters in a police car by Acting Staff Sgt. Matt Weir.

She was given a uniform and badge to wear before being officially sworn in by Chief Robert Bruce.

Lord then spent the day touring police headquarters and learning about the different units.

Her mother, Katelyn Lord, said it meant a lot to see her daughter win and get to serve as chief.

“When I was in active labour with Sophia, I actually wrote the RCMP entrance exam, which is like a four-hour exam,” she said.

“She has a Challenge Coin from the RCMP and a letter, so it’s pretty cool to see her come here.”

Saint John residents should not expect any major policing changes from Chief Lord — unless you are a Montreal Canadiens fan, that is.

“If you like Montreal, you’ve got to move to the USA,” she joked.

The Chief for a Day contest has been taking place since 2019.