New ACC at Northumbria Police
A senior officer is leaving his police roots after a quarter of century to take up a top post with a neighbouring force.
A senior officer is leaving his police roots after a quarter of century to take up a top post with a neighbouring force.
Darren Best, currently head of crime and criminal justice at Cleveland Police, will take on the protective services portfolio next door at Northumbria Police.
As assistant chief constable his new role will encompass vulnerable people, child abuse, homicide, intelligence and serious and organised crime.
It also incorporates the operations department which includes firearms support and roads policing, as well as marine, horses, dogs, airport and metro policing teams.
Mr Best joined Cleveland Police in 1989, working his way through the ranks in public protection, child protection and professional standards.
He was also district commander for Stockton from 2010 to 2012, before being promoted to detective chief superintendent.
Northumbria Police Chief Constable Steve Ashman said he believes Mr Best will be an excellent addition to the force.
I look forward to working with Darren as we continue to deliver the high quality service our communities deserve. He has tremendous experience of policing and a real understanding of the north east.
Mr Best said he had admired Northumbria Police as a force throughout his career.
“It has been rightfully recognised for its excellence across the country and I am proud to now be part of the team, he said.
“Northumbria has an excellent reputation and prior to applying for the post, I spoke with a number of officers and staff who clearly had a real passion for policing and for serving the public.
I am delighted to be working alongside all of the people who help keep the people of Northumbria safe.
The areas police and crime commissioner Vera Baird said: Mr Bests experience, i`m sure, will benefit the communities of Northumbria and I look forward to working with him in future.”