A Surrey police officer has been recognized internationally for his “unwavering commitment and attention to detail” during some of the department’s most complex and high-profile cases.

Staff Sgt. Derek Bonner was one of the recipients of this year’s Top 40 under 40 award on behalf of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).

The award recognizes 40 law enforcement professionals worldwide under the age of 40 who demonstrate leadership, excellence and commitment to their communities and the law enforcement profession.

Bonner is responsible for the serious crime unit in Surrey, which investigates homicides, attempted murders, serious assaults, high-risk missing persons and arson.

“Every time I succeed in bringing closure to a victim, I am motivated to work tirelessly to achieve the same result for the next victim,” he said.

In 2022, he was recognized for his successful investigations as a Team Commander, Lead Investigator and Case Coordinator and subsequently identified as an Accredited Team Commander in British Columbia.

“Through his combined experience in academy teaching, general duty, school liaison role, cover surveillance and major crimes, he has proven himself to be an excellent investigator and trusted leader,” can – we read in a press release from the Surrey RCMP Thursday, October 24. This includes an investigation into several years of shootings that led to the arrest and conviction of several people involved in a “vast drug trafficking network.”

Surrey RCMP Assistant Commissioner Brian Edwards said the award was “well deserved.”

“Derek’s leadership and dedication to the residents of Surrey and to the Surrey RCMP team exemplifies the highest traditions of the RCMP. This recognition is a testament to your hard work and the positive impact you make every day,” Edwards said.

He was the only RCMP officer in Canada to receive this award in 2024.

Booner is driven by his desire to leave a positive impact, whether at work or in his community. He recently earned a bachelor’s degree and in his free time coaches youth sports.

Delta Police Department Acting Staff Sgt. Also among this year’s winners was Gary Koonar, who as shift commander of “A” Platoon leads a team of 20 officers focused on community safety, teamwork and proactive policing.

Koonar is the fifth Delta police officer in as many years to be named to the IACP Top 40 Under 40, joining Const. Grayson Smith in 2020, Const. Jérémie Pearce in 2021, Const. Jessy Sahota in 2022 And Sgt. Kaitlyn Garcia in 2023.

Two Surrey Police Department officers have also received this award in previous years: Det. Const. Mandy Glassco in 2022 and Sgt. Kaleigh Paddon in 2023.

-With files from James Smith