Deputy chief constable retires after 30 years of service
A forces second in command has confirmed her retirement 18 months after joining the force.
A forces second in command has confirmed her retirement 18 months after joining the force.
South Yorkshire Police (SYP) Deputy Chief Constable Dawn Copley will retire in April following her appointment in October 2015.
Ms Copley began her career with Lancashire Constabulary in 1987 where she served for 23 years before moving to Greater Manchester Police (GMP) as assistant chief constable.
In April last year, she was appointed acting chief constable after David Crompton was suspended over the Hillsborough inquest.
However, she stepped down two days later after it emerged she was under investigation over her conduct while at GMP.
An independent investigation later concluded all the allegations against Ms Copley were unfounded.
South Yorkshires police and crime commissioner, Dr Alan Billings shared Ms Copleys relief that she could retire knowing the unfair speculation was behind her.
He added: I would like to wish DCC Copley a very happy retirement and thank her for her valuable contributions during her time in SYP.”
Ms Copley holds an MSc in Police Leadership and Management from Leicester University and was awarded the Queens Police Medal in the 2015 Birthday Honours.
She said: When I joined in April 1987 I could not have imagined the many and varied experiences that lay ahead some have been immensely enjoyable, others have been terribly sad. But together these experiences have added up to a fabulous career and I have met some truly wonderful people along the way.
I have been particularly proud and privileged to serve the communities of South Yorkshire and the men and women of SYP as their deputy chief constable. I am committed to doing my role to the best of my ability for the time that remains. While SYP continues to face some significant challenges, change is underway.
I have seen first-hand how committed, enthusiastic and determined our staff are to deliver the best possible service to our communities and I know this will continue. Its time for the next chapter in my life and I look forward to being able to spend more time with my family and friends.