Gloucestershire’s interim chief constable promises ‘stability and strong leadership’

Maggie Blyth has been seconded to the constabulary from the College of Policing following the suspension of Chief Constable Rod Hansen pending an investigation into an alleged breach of standards of professional behaviour.

She stressed that day-to-day policing has been “unaffected by the change in leadership”.

“I fully appreciate the unusual circumstances in which I’ve been appointed and that there will be questions about the impact recent events may have had,” said Ms Blyth.

“I come to the force having been a chief officer for the past five-and-a-half years and with substantial criminal justice experience.

“My promise to the people of Gloucestershire is that I will provide stability and strong leadership for however long I am needed.”

She confirmed that she will be applying for the role of temporary chief constable.

Ms Blyth said she had been “incredibly impressed by professionalism and dedication of the senior officers who’ve proved such safe pairs of hands during what has been an unusual time”.

“Their leadership has ensured the services we provide to the public have remained unchanged,” she said.

“I’ve already met many of our frontline officers and staff over the past week and it’s clear the service is full of people who know their communities well, who care about them and who are committed to making sure they are safe and feel safe.

“I will do whatever is necessary to support all our officers and staff carry out their duties and ensure we deliver the Police and Crime Prevention Plan already in place.”

Ms Blyth added: “To help achieve this, one of my first jobs is to recruit an interim deputy chief constable. I advertised for this role as soon as I was able to and I’m delighted to say there has been significant interest both inside and outside the organisation. I expect to be able to confirm the successful applicant in the coming days.

“Due to the urgent need to fill the chief constable post, I’m currently here on an interim basis until a temporary chief constable is appointed in the near future.

“I can confirm I will be applying for the role of temporary chief constable and I completely understand the need for a competitive and transparent process to be carried out.

“However long I am here in Gloucestershire for, I am looking forward to working with my colleagues as well as our partners and communities to continue to deliver outstanding policing for everyone who lives, works and visits this great county.”