MOOSE JAW — Moose Jaw Police Service says three new members were welcomed into the force on Friday, July 11 as Griffin Barrett, Brooke Paul and Kyle Murphy were sworn in as constables.
Two of the new members are Moose Jaw products, and the third grew up here.
Griffin Barrett, 26, was born and raised in Moose Jaw. Following his high school graduation, Barrett attended Simon Fraser University in British Columbia on a football scholarship. After completing his degree, Barrett had the opportunity to continue his football career professionally in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and overseas.
Barrett says that becoming a police officer in his hometown is a full-circle moment.
“Having had the opportunity to go live in Vancouver and live out my dream playing football and to be able to come back to the place and the people that gave me the confidence and support to go do that, it's a full circle moment to become a police officer in Moose Jaw,” says Barrett. “I now get the chance to not only give back to the community that supported me but also protect them and this city.”
After a long and extensive application process, Barrett can’t believe this day has finally come.
“It's truly a special moment and I feel so honoured to be one of three officers who were selected during the hiring process to represent this service and wear the MJPS badge with pride.”
Hailing from Moose Jaw as well, 29-year-old Brooke Paul brings with her a wealth of experience, as she worked as a correctional officer for seven years.
Paul says that becoming a police officer has been a goal of hers ever since high school.
“Earning my Criminal Justice - Policing diploma and working in corrections allowed me to grow personally and professionally, preparing me for this next role,” says Paul. “I’m passionate about helping, protecting, and supporting people in times of need. Being sworn in is a moment I’ll never forget. It feels like the beginning of something I’ve worked hard for and truly believe in.”
She is excited for the next step, which is the lengthy training course at the Saskatchewan Police College.
“To push myself, to learn from experienced instructors, and to build strong connections with others who share the same commitment to this profession. I know it will be challenging, but I’m ready for it and excited to grow into the kind of officer I’ve always looked up to.”
Finally, Kyle Murphy, 28, is from Halifax, N.S., and has spent the last several years in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Though Murphy was born in Halifax, Moose Jaw feels more like home, as this is where he started and finished high school at Vanier Collegiate Institute.
Prior to becoming a police officer, Murphy was a marine technician aboard the submarine, HMCS Corner Brook in Victoria, B.C. He says that his passion for policing was discovered during his time in Victoria during a ride-along with a friend from the Victoria Police Department.
“Seeing him work with the public through various issues, all with varying degrees of seriousness, while remaining so calm and collected was cool to see, and I wanted to be like him, and do what he does for the community of Moose Jaw,” explains Murphy.
“I'm incredibly happy to be sworn into the MJPS, in the city where I grew up and where my family lives, and feel very grateful for the opportunity,” adds Murphy.
Murphy also stated that he is excited to be challenged and pushed to his limits, both physically and academically, at the Saskatchewan Police College.
The Honourable David Chow, Judge of the Provincial Court of Saskatchewan, administered the oaths, while Chair of the Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners and Moose Jaw Mayor, James Murdock, brought greetings.
In his closing remarks, MJPS Acting Chief Rick Johns spoke about the career that these three individuals have chosen to pursue.
“Being sworn in is a proud milestone for these recruits,” says Acting Chief Johns. “Guided by integrity, community, and vision, they now take their next step—preparing to serve Moose Jaw with professionalism and dedication.”
Barrett, Paul, and Murphy will now prepare for the Saskatchewan Police College. Their 21-week training program will begin on Monday, July 21. They will then graduate from the police college in December 2025.
