Our History and the Future: From BNPP to Belle-Baie

For over four decades, the BNPP Regional Police has been the cornerstone of community safety in Northern New Brunswick. What began as a pioneering effort in regional cooperation has evolved into a modern force, now transitioning to become the Belle-Baie Police Force on August 1, 2026. This change reflects our commitment to protecting the unified municipality of Belle-Baie while honoring the heritage of the four founding communities.

The Legacy of BNPP Regional Police (1981–2026)

Established on October 22, 1981, the BNPP Regional Police was the first of its kind in the province. It was born from a shared vision by the municipalities of Beresford, Nigadoo, Petit-Rocher, and Pointe-Verte to provide 24-hour local police presence.

• Pioneering Beginnings: Starting with just 12 officers and a single secretary, the force operated out of a central station in Nigadoo to serve approximately 6,000 residents.
• Decades of Growth: Over the years, the force expanded its expertise, joining a 2003 Mutual Aid Agreement with other Northern New Brunswick departments to share specialized services like K9 units and major crime investigations.
• High Standards: BNPP has consistently been recognized for professional excellence, often maintaining one of the highest crime resolution rates in the province.
• Visual Evolution: ​The original BNPP Regional Police crest was a central part of the department's identity for over two decades, serving the communities of Beresford, Nigadoo, Petit-Rocher, and Pointe-Verte in New Brunswick.  
• In 2005, the force adopted a new patch featuring the Canadian and Acadian flags, representing the cultural pride and maritime resources of the Bay of Chaleur.  
• In 2026, ​The new Belle-Baie Police Force crest blends traditional authority with modern regional identity. Anchored by a navy blue shield and a golden laurel wreath, the design features the stylized "BB" emblem with coastal wave elements at its center. Key inscriptions include the motto "Service & Protection" and the year "1981," honoring the department’s deep historical roots in the region. Topped with a Canadian maple leaf and finished with a bold "POLICE" banner, the crest serves as a professional symbol of the force's commitment to the unified Belle-Baie community.  This crest was the concept and design of one our administrative-assistants, Cindy Bouthillette.

The Continuance: Belle-Baie Police Force

Following the 2023 municipal reform that amalgamated our founding communities into the Town of Belle-Baie, the police force has undertaken a historic expansion. As we transition to the Belle-Baie Police Force, we are extending our protection to include the entire territory, including sectors previously served by the RCMP such as Alcida and Robertville.

• Official Launch: On August 1, 2026, the department will officially rebrand to align with our new municipal identity.
• A New Home: A state-of-the-art police headquarters is currently under construction at the corner of Aubé and Principale Streets in Beresford. This $10 million facility is designed to house our growing team and provide modern resources for 21st-century policing.
• Expanded Team: To serve the additional 5,000+ residents in the expanded territory, the force is hiring at least eight new members, including a Deputy Chief and dedicated investigation and public relations officers.
• Community Values: While our name and boundaries change, our philosophy of "Proximity Policing" remains. We stay rooted in the community, providing bilingual service and maintaining the close-knit trust that has defined us since 1981.