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Toronto police's new chief could be named this weekend

The Toronto Police Service could name its new chief as soon as this weekend after conducting final interviews with three frontrunners on Friday.

Among those vying to replace outgoing chief Bill Blair are said to be the current deputy chiefs, Peter Sloly and Mark Saunders.

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A third candidate was also interviewed, though the Toronto Police Services Board, who will make the decision, would not confirm who that person is.

Toronto Mayor John Tory, who has one vote on the board, was tight-lipped about the search for a new chief.

"All I can say is there is a very extensive, very thorough, very time consuming process to make sure we pick an excellent, sensitive chief of police," Tory said.

Both Sloly and Saunders have had lengthy and varied careers within the Toronto Police Service.

Sloly has worked in 53 and 55 Divisions and has a masters degree from York University's business school.

Saunders has already earned the right to oversee the security at this summer's Pan Am Games. He's also worked with the police force's gang and drug squads, and also oversaw the homicide division.

The decision is being watched closely at city hall, where police issues — including carding, the controversial practice that will continue after a recent board decision — are always hot topics.