The International Homicide Investigators Association (IHIA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Detective Staff Sergeant Tanya Sampson to its Board of Directors as the organization's inaugural Canada Region Director.
This newly established leadership position reflects IHIA's continued commitment to expanding its international presence and strengthening engagement with homicide investigators and law enforcement professionals throughout Canada. As the association continues to grow its membership and training opportunities across the country, the Canada Region Director will play a key role in fostering collaboration, supporting members, and advancing IHIA's mission.
"We are excited to welcome Tanya to the IHIA Board of Directors," said IHIA Executive Director Steve Lewis. "We look forward to the perspective, leadership, and experience she will bring to the organization. As we continue to grow our presence and support for members across Canada, I am confident her contributions will help drive continued success."
Detective Staff Sergeant Tanya Sampson has been a sworn member of the Ontario Provincial Police (O.P.P.) since 2000, bringing more than two decades of law enforcement experience and investigative expertise. Since 2009, she has supported major criminal investigations in a variety of highly specialized roles and currently serves as the Manager of Operational Programs within the O.P.P.'s Criminal Investigation Branch.
In her current role, Sampson has been instrumental in advancing investigative practices throughout the O.P.P. She established and now leads both the Historic Homicide Unit and the Investigative Genetic Genealogy Implementation Team, helping modernize investigative strategies and strengthen the organization's ability to resolve complex cases.
Throughout her career, Sampson has also played a significant role in developing the O.P.P.'s High Risk Offender Unit and Threat Assessment Program. She previously led electronic surveillance and Part VI (Title III) wiretap operations supporting major homicide and organized crime investigations and served as a member of the Joint Forces Penitentiary Squad, investigating serious criminal activity within federal correctional institutions.
Sampson holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in History and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Lakehead University. She also served as a commissioned officer in the Canadian Armed Forces (Cadet Instructor Cadre), further demonstrating her longstanding commitment to leadership, mentorship, and public service.
As IHIA's Canada Region Director, Sampson will focus on strengthening relationships with Canadian members and agencies while helping expand access to professional development, specialized training, networking opportunities, and collaborative initiatives for investigators across the country.
"I am so excited and thankful for this amazing opportunity to be a part of the IHIA Board and support and enhance IHIA's presence within Canada," said Sampson. "I look forward to working alongside our members and partners to strengthen connections, expand opportunities for collaboration, and continue advancing homicide investigations across Canada."
IHIA proudly welcomes Detective Staff Sergeant Tanya Sampson to its Board of Directors and looks forward to the leadership, expertise, and vision she will bring as the association continues to strengthen its international reach and serve homicide investigators around the world.
Members across Canada may contact Tanya directly at tsampson@ihia.org to connect, ask questions, or learn more about IHIA opportunities in the region.
