Belleville Police Sgt. Grant Boulay (L) was invested into the national Order of Merit of the Police Forces. Sgt. Boulay is pictured with Belleville Police Chief Ron Gignac on Thursday June 1, 2017. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
Belleville Police Sgt. Grant Boulay has been invested into the national Order of Merit of the Police Forces.
At a special ceremony on Thursday, Belleville Police Chief Ron Gignac recognized Sgt. Boulay for his exceptional service as an expert forensic identification leader of the Belleville Police Service and investigative services throughout the world. 56-year-old Sgt. Boulay was bestowed the Order of Merit of the Police Forces in Ottawa by Governor General David Johnston last week for his exceptional service in both policing and community development.
“It’s a prestigious award, a Canadian honour and we are very proud of Sgt. Boulay on receiving this distinct honour,” said Chief Gignac.
With over 700 death investigations to his credit during his 33 years on the Belleville police force, Chief Gignac called Sgt. Boulay a silent warrior.
As a member of the Ontario Police College’s Forensic Identification Board and former president of the Identification Society, Sgt. Boulay was sought for his investigative services and assisted in the notable investigations for serial killers Robert Pickton in B.C. and was the lead forensic identification officer in the investigation of former 8-Wing Trenton Col. Russell Williams.
“He has put Belleville and the Belleville police force on the map internationally for forensic identification,” said Chief Gignac. “Sgt. Boulay has dedicated the past 25 years as a police officer to the forensic identification world and is a world renowned subject matter expert that is feverishly sought after for his expertise in various parts of the world and nationally.”
A very humble Sgt. Boulay said is was nice to be appreciated by his peers.
Gignac said Sgt. Boulay has had many job offers outside of Belleville however he is dedicated to serving the Friendly City.
“This is the community I started with and this is the community I’m going to end with,” said Sgt. Boulay proudly.
When it comes to what’s next for Sgt. Boulay as he plans to retire within in the next couple of years, he said relaxation is on the top of his list however he isn’t ruling out teaching and is always keeping his options open.
