West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner begins search for permanent chief constable
Richard Cooper has held the temporary chief constable role since August 2024.
The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for West Mercia Police says he has started his formal process to recruit the force's next permanent chief constable.
Richard Cooper has been acting as the temporary chief constable since August 2024, after the person who previously held the position in Alex Murray announced he was leaving.
A permanent chief constable hasn't been in place since Pippa Mills left in October 2023.
The PCC announced in December 2023 commander Kyle Gordon as the preferred candidate for the role, but it was later revealed in June 2024 Gordon would no longer be taking up the post.
PCC John Campion has pledged to appoint a candidate who is focused on delivering safer, stronger communities across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire, by focusing on the public’s policing priorities, driving down crime and spending taxpayers’ money wisely.
Campion said: “I am committed to appointing a permanent chief constable that will work with me to deliver on the public’s priorities through my police and crime plan.
“With the backing of the public and record levels of investment into West Mercia Police, it’s important the steps made in this next chapter build on the significant progress made as well as recognising there’s more to do, to build a safer West Mercia.”
Appointing a chief constable is considered a 'key' element of the PCC’s role.