David Sandall named preferred candidate for Leicestershire chief constable
Leicestershire Police’s temporary chief constable David Sandall has been named as the preferred candidate to take on the force’s top job permanently.
Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews announced the decision today (August 25) following a competitive selection process involving internal and external assessments, a presentation and formal interview.
Sandall, who has served with Leicestershire Police since joining as a constable in 1999, became temporary chief constable in April 2025 following the retirement of Rob Nixon.
His appointment must now be approved by the Leicestershire Police and Crime Panel, with background checks also required before the appointment can be confirmed.
Sandall has held a series of operational and investigative roles during his 27 years with the force, including work in local policing, safeguarding, serious and organised crime, intelligence and criminal justice.
He became assistant chief constable in 2019 and deputy chief constable in 2022.
Earlier this year, Sandall personally detained a teenager after chasing him following an incident at a local football match in which a player had allegedly been threatened with a knife.
Mr Matthews said Sandall had demonstrated a “deep understanding” of the communities and challenges of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
He added that the panel had been impressed by his commitment to working with residents, community leaders and partner organisations.
Sandall said he was “extremely honoured” to be named as the preferred candidate for his “home force”.
He said: “Serving the communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland remains of the utmost importance to me – preventing and detecting crime, supporting victims and carrying out investigations to the highest standard.”
He also praised the commitment of officers, staff and volunteers during his 16 months as temporary chief.
The Police and Crime Panel will now hold a confirmation hearing before any permanent appointment can be made.
The force said interviews with Sandall will not take place until after the appointment has been confirmed and all background checks have been completed.