Since Woodstock was first settled in the early 1800’s, the city has experienced a rich police history. Early law enforcement in the area was conducted by British military veterans who established a system of law based on their British military background.  

On 13 May 1865, a by-law was passed to establish a "Town Lock-up", and William Currie, was appointed Chief Constable for the Town of Woodstock. The first Police office and lock up was located in the basement of the present day Woodstock Museum.

The Woodstock Police Department continued to grow and by 1875 consisted of a Chief Constable and two Police Constables. On 01 July 1901, Woodstock was incorporated as a City. This placed policing under the control of a Board of Commissioners.

A long succession of Chiefs continued to guide the force as it grew in numbers and expertise with the longest serving being Chief Arthur R. Moore who was appointed Chief Constable in 1920 and served for almost 30 years.

In January of 1999, the Oxford Community Police Service was formed amalgamating the former Woodstock Police Department, Tavistock Police Service and Township of Norwich Police Service. In addition to the amalgamation of these police services the Oxford Community Police Service assumed the policing responsibilities for the three rural townships of Blandford Blenheim, East Zorra Tavistock, and Norwich. The Oxford Community Police Service commenced these policing obligations in January 1999. Chief Joe Opthof, Chief Rod Piukkala and Chief Ron Fraser, all served as Chiefs of the Oxford Community Police Service.

On 19 October 2009, the Oxford Community Police Service ceased to exist and the Woodstock Police Service was reborn under the direction of the present Chief Rod Freeman. The members of the Woodstock Police Service are proud to carry on the rich historical tradition of providing protection, safety and security to the citizens of Woodstock.