A trusted voice for Eastern Ontario retires after 25 years with the OPP

Bill Dickson officially retired this week.

After more than a quarter century of helping keep communities informed during both crises and everyday policing matters, a familiar and trusted voice in Eastern Ontario is signing off.

Bill Dickson has retired as Media Relations Coordinator for the Ontario Provincial Police’s East Region, concluding just over 25 years of service marked by professionalism, compassion and a deep commitment to the public.

Dickson worked closely with the media across the region, often responding quickly to urgent requests. He viewed police communications not as publicity, but as a vital public service delivered in partnership with local media.

Although many assumed he was a sworn officer, Dickson was a civilian employee who brought decades of broadcasting experience to the role. 

His media career began at age 15 in Nova Scotia through a high school radio club, later leading to broadcast journalism studies at Loyalist College and newsroom work in Belleville and Kitchener.

Dickson joined the OPP after beating out hundreds of applicants for the position. Over the years, he worked alongside multiple generations of officers and witnessed both tragedy and remarkable acts of kindness from officers and ordinary citizens alike. 

Reflecting on his career, Bill expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

Dickson also says the OPP will always be a part of his life. In fact he's just made that official. 

Bill Dickson’s steady voice, and his dedication to Eastern Ontario, remains strong. 

Story by KingstonDaily.ca Staff