Met Police Commander 'preferred candidate' to replace Wiltshire force Chief
Wiltshire's PCC has made his choice on who he wants to fill the role
The preferred candidate to replace Wiltshire Police Chief Constable has been chosen.
Current Chief Constable Kier Pritchard announced in November he would be retiring after 30 years in policing in June 2023, so the hunt is on to find his replacement.
Now, Philip Wilkinson the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire, has chosen Metropolitan Police Commander Catherine Roper as his preferred candidate.
Mr Wilkinson said:
“Catherine is an exceptionally strong candidate and brings with her decades of experience within challenging policing environments alongside a different perspective and view to police delivery in the county.
“I believe Catherine will be an inspirational leader. She has a track record of delivering a high-performing police function, fighting crime but also working closely with local authorities and partner agencies to drive change and ensure Wiltshire Police delivers a quality policing service that our residents want and deserve."
Commander Roper joined the Met Police in 2000, in frontline policing and continued on to work within the Specialist Protection Command - responsible for the armed protection of high profile people.
The commander was also part of the Royalty Protection arm of the Met Police.
A hearing will take place in January to confirm the appointment.