Constable, Saskatoon Police Service

Cst. Derek Chesney, otherwise known as Chess by many, has been an officer with the Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) for the past 12 years. Having grown up on Treaty 4 Territory as a 3rd generation cattle rancher, Chess still maintains a strong connection to his animals and the land.  In 2004, he moved to Saskatoon to study at the University of Saskatchewan and later graduated with a BA in Sociology/Aboriginal Justice. As an officer, he spent four years on foot patrol walking the beat in downtown Saskatoon, and in the Riversdale and Broadway neighbourhoods. In his time on the beat, he had the opportunity to work with many people struggling with poverty, addictions and the transgenerational effects of the residential schools. In fall 2014, Chess was assigned to the SPS Cultural Relations Unit, to serve as a liaison to many religious and cultural groups, as well as members of the sexual and diverse community. Over the past five years, he has served as the Indigenous Liaison Officer, strengthening and maintaining a strong relationship with the local Indigenous community. He attends ceremony as often as he can and sees the strength and healing power that they hold.  Chess completed his four-year fasting commitment under the guidance of the Late Walter Linklater, and feels fortunate and honoured to be forever connected to the Linklater Clan.