London Police board chair steps down, cites health reasons

London Police Service Board (LPSB) chair Ali Chahbar announced his resignation, Friday afternoon, citing "personal health reasons" in a letter he shared with the public.

Chahbar's sudden resignation marked the end of his his multi-year long tenure in the position he's held for two and a half years. He had served on the board since December 2021.

"Due to personal health reasons, I must regrettably step down from the Board at this time," Chahbar's letter reads.

"While I lament that I must step away at this time, I firmly believe that serving on this Board is a privilege and that unless a member can commit themselves fully and faithfully to the role, they should step aside to make space for another deserving individual."

The nature of the health reasons Chahbar said are driving the decisions, is unknown.

Chahbar's time in the position, while not without controversy, overlapped with the appointment of a new police chief, and a push to modernize the London Police Service.

Vice-chair Ryan Gauss will temporarily take on Chahbar's role in an acting capacity until a new chair is elected at the board's next meeting on May 15, the LPSB said in an update provided following the resignation.

Commenting on Chahbar's resignation, Gauss wrote: "Ali has led with clarity, compassion, and a remarkable dedication to community wellbeing. While we are saddened to see him step down, we support his decision to prioritize his health and extend our best wishes to Ali and his family."

The board said the province has been notified of Chahbar's resignation, and work will commence to fill the vacancy.