Appointment of Jo Shiner ‘best decision for future of Sussex Police’
Jo Shiner was formally welcomed as the new chief constable of Sussex Police today (July 13) during a ceremony at force headquarters in Lewes.
The appointment of Ms Shiner by Sussex police and crime commissioner Katy Bourne was unanimously supported by the county’s police and crime panel on June 30.
Since then, the first woman to be appointed chief constable of Sussex Police has pledged to make the force tougher on tackling criminality, even more supportive to victims of crime and to make sure that more officers and police community support officers are engaging with residents and visitors in cities, towns and villages.
Ms Bourne said she was confident they had made “the best decision for the future of Sussex Police and the safety of our residents”.
Marking her first official day in the role, Ms Shiner said: “I am honestly and truly honoured and humbled to be the new chief constable of Sussex, and as the first woman in that role, I feel privileged to make that piece of history in Sussex.
“During my 18 months serving as deputy chief constable I have experienced the hard work and dedication of all my colleagues in Sussex Police, from our chief officer team to our frontline officers and the staff who support them.
“And whilst a lot of hard work has gone in on my part, I would like to sincerely thank all those who have supported me in my role, not least my husband Andrew, as I would not have achieved this without them.
“Knowing how diligently and professionally everyone within Sussex Police works, I am confident we will continue to achieve strong results every single day, delivering on my priorities for the year ahead, which are to protect our communities, catch criminals and provide an outstanding service to victims, witnesses and the wider public.”
Ms Shiner’s new chief officer and staff team gathered on the lawn of Malling House to witness their new chief constable officially presented with her warrant card and epaulettes by Ms Bourne.
“Chief Constable Shiner is clearly passionate about this role and the positive influence she can have on officers and staff across the county,” said Ms Bourne.
“Today is a proud moment for her and her family and I believe we have made the best decision for the future of Sussex Police and the safety of our residents.
“Over the past year I have been consulting extensively with the public and will be basing my priorities, in my upcoming Police and Crime Plan, on the needs expressed by the communities Sussex Police serve.
“Going forward Chief Constable Shiner has assured me that the force will be tougher on criminals, provide more visible policing, be more proactive and preventative towards tackling business crime and rural crime and work hard to shine a light on hidden harms, always striving to achieve the best possible justice outcomes for victims.”
