Constable Derek Chesney has a way of communicating that makes him perfect for his job with the Saskatoon Police Service. It’s direct, respectful, and full of empathy.

He credits his style from growing up on a ranch in southeast Saskatchewan surrounded by cowboys.

“I got to listen to a lot of old guys BS back in the day, and they tell stories of humanity and people,” explains Chesney.

The veteran police officer is a member of the Saskatoon Police Service’s Cultural Relations Unit. It’s job is to help forge relationships and build connections between the police force and different communities within the city.

The unit started in the early 2000’s as an attempt to repair the disconnect between the indigenous population and the SPS. While that remains an important focus, Chesney says the scope of his work has changed thanks to Saskatoon’s growing diversity.

This is the final episode of Season One. Thank you so much for listening, subscribing and supporting this local podcast. YXE Underground will return for Season Two with new episodes this September. If you know of someone who is doing something great in our community but is flying under the radar, please let Eric know. Email him at [email protected] or fill out a nomination form on the website.

Thank you again for all of your support and have a wonderful summer!

• Host, Producer, Editor: Eric Anderson
• Theme Music: Andrew Dickson
• Website: https://www.yxeunderground.com
• Recorded: On Treaty 6 Territory and the traditional homeland of the Metis