Inspector Jennifer McKinnon’s career in the Winnipeg Police Service has been marked by an evolution through various roles and responsibilities. She began her journey in January 1997, starting with a focus on Uniform Operations and Criminal Investigations. Early in her tenure, she joined the Forensic Identification Unit as a Forensic Specialist in Crime Scene Investigations. Her role involved collaboration with different areas of the police service and numerous policing agencies across Canada.
Driven by a desire for new challenges, Jennifer transitioned to the Major Crimes Unit, where her forensic expertise proved invaluable in leading a diverse range of criminal investigations. Her ability to integrate her forensic background with major crime investigations highlighted her adaptability and leadership skills.
In 2021, Jennifer’s career reached a new milestone when she was promoted to the senior management rank of Inspector. In this role, she managed Uniform Operations, overseeing the day-to-day street operations service wide in the Duty Office.
In August 2023, Jennifer’s leadership journey advanced further as she was appointed Divisional Commander of the Criminal Investigation Bureau’s Major Crimes Division. This role marks the culmination of her 28 years of policing experience, positioning her at the helm of complex criminal investigations. Building on her unique investigative background, Jennifer spearheaded a key initiative in November 2023. Under her direction, her team from the Property Crime Unit launched the Retail Theft Initiative. This initiative is a comprehensive, collaborative response designed to address the increasing challenges of retail theft across the City. By leveraging a multifaceted strategy, the Retail Theft Initiative adapted to the evolving landscape of retail crime and enhance the effectiveness of crime prevention and investigation efforts.
In addition to her full-time assignments, Inspector McKinnon serves an Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba and a Major Incident Response Team Commander.