Sarah Darraugh is no ordinary law enforcement officer.
The Upper Ottawa Valley detachments have a new Inspector following the appointment of longtime Valley stalwart Steph Neufeld to East Region Superintendent of the OPP. Inspector Darraugh is certainly no stranger to the Valley, as she has spent most of her policing career here. Darraugh explains how she recently came to occupy the role:
Darraugh sat before a panel of seven individuals who held her fate in their hands, including the East Regional Chief, two East Region Superintendents, and four Detachment Board Chairs:
Darraugh explains that, as per standard procedure, she was not informed how many other candidates were considered for the position—only that she had secured the job and is still awaiting official feedback from the panel. A logical question to ask is, “What do you do now?” Darraugh says the role is all-encompassing across several regions of the Valley:
Darraugh estimates that she is now responsible for roughly 150 people in various roles, ranging from civilians to different levels of law enforcement officers. Under her purview are also court officers, special constables, and auxiliary members, to name a few.
Darraugh is well aware that there is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” approach to addressing issues in the Valley, and she intends to approach every challenge with an open mind and an understanding of the uniqueness each situation brings to those affected. High on her list of priorities right out of the gate is continuing and enhancing youth engagement, as her predecessor made this a key focus in the region:
Another area of concern for Darraugh is the uptick in motor vehicle infractions, which have increased steadily since COVID. She believes stronger enforcement may be key to bringing these numbers back in line. Intimate partner violence statistics are also alarmingly on the rise in the region. This represents yet another area Darraugh feels must be addressed by continuing to educate youth and marginalized individuals on how to avoid the pitfalls of this kind of dangerous behaviour.
Law enforcement is truly a family business for Darraugh, as she follows in the footsteps of her father, who has been—and still is—a longstanding member of the OPP in the Valley.
Darraugh also credits former Inspector Neufeld for the invaluable guidance and support he has provided over many years as she continued to serve and protect. There is no doubt the community is in very good hands under the watchful eye of Inspector Sarah Darraugh.
(Written By: Richard Evans)