Preferred candidate chosen to be Hampshire's next Chief Constable

Hampshire's PCC has selected her first choice for the top job

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 8th Nov 2022

The Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has named Scott Chilton as her proposed appointment for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s next Chief Constable.

Scott is the current Chief Constable for Dorset Police, a position he has held since July 2021.

PCC Donna Jones said:

“After a comprehensive selection process I am delighted to announce Scott Chilton as my preferred candidate to be appointed as the next Chief Constable of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.

“Scott started his policing career in Hampshire, working his way up through the ranks to Assistant Chief Constable. He left Hampshire in 2020 to take up the role of Deputy Chief Constable for Dorset Police before being appointed as Dorset’s Chief Constable in July 2021.

“Scott is a highly experienced senior police officer and I am very much looking forward to working closely with him as I continue to deliver on my Police and Crime Plan and support the force to provide an outstanding service to the public.”

The appointment is subject to a confirmation hearing by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary Police and Crime Panel who will review the PCC’s proposed appointment.

The confirmation hearing is expected to take place on November 21st.

Scott Chilton was chosen following an intensive formal application and interview process, in accordance with national regulations.

The announcement comes after Chief Constable Olivia Pinkney announced in September that she would be retiring from policing in spring 2023.

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