Former Manchester Arena terror commander appointed Channel island chief of police
A new chief officer has been appointed to lead the States of Jersey Police following the death of Rob Bastable in 2018.
British Transport Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Robin Smith beat seven other candidates to the post – six men and one woman. The process was open to applicants from Jersey and overseas.
He succeeds Mr Bastable, who died in July 2018 after a battle with cancer. His role has been filled since by Temporary Deputy Chief Officer James Wileman.
Mr Smith has more than 30 years’ experience including as temporary deputy chief constable of the Sussex and Surrey Police collaboration, and in his current role he was a senior commander for the Manchester Arena and London Bridge terrorist attacks and the Croydon tram crash.
He was previously head of operations for Sussex Police, head of the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit, a former divisional commander at Gatwick Airport and is a strategic firearms and gold public order commander.
He has also been the national lead for local policing and Crimestoppers for the National Police Chiefs’ Council.
Minister for Home Affairs Len Norman said: “I am pleased to announce Robin Smith’s appointment following a rigorous recruitment process. He has exceptional leadership and operational experience and will be vital in delivering the vision for the States of Jersey Police and formulating succession plans and developing the current senior leadership team.
“The Chief of Police is a vital role at the very heart of Jersey’s community and is integral for the protection of all Islanders, especially the most vulnerable, including children and victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence. I look forward to working closely with him.”
Dr Jason Lane, Chairman of the Jersey Police Authority, said: “Robin brings substantial command experience from Surrey, Sussex and the British Transport Police in driving and delivering change programmes. His experience as operational commander for the Manchester Arena bombing, among other high-profile incidents, is testimony to his skills and reputation. I have no doubt that this appointment will drive the force forward, building on the impressive work already achieved in delivering improved services to the public.”
The competitive recruitment process was overseen by the Jersey Appointments Commission chair Dame Janet Paraskeva, who led a selection panel including former Humberside police Chief Constable Justine Curran. Former West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Dee Collins provided technical assessment alongside search company Penna.
Mr Smith said: “I am delighted to be appointed as Jersey’s new Chief of Police. It’s a privilege to be given the responsibility to lead the men and women of States of Jersey Police.
“I’m looking forward to working with senior colleagues across the Government of Jersey, the Honorary Police, with partner agencies and the public to keep Jersey safe and in creating a just and fair society for all Islanders. That will be my priority and I can’t wait to get started.”
