PCC note shows ‘no mystery’ behind chief constable’s retirement
North Yorkshire’s police and crime commissioner has tried to quash “rumours and gossip” by revealing the reason for Chief Constable Dave Jones’ retirement.
Julia Mulligan issued an internal communication explaining that ill health prompted Mr Jones to announce his retirement with a year left on his contract.
The chief constable stepped down with immediate effect on April 16, eight days after tendering his resignation to Ms Mulligan to spend more time with his family.
The note explains that he was taken ill while on leave over Easter.
Deputy Chief Constable Lisa Winward has been appointed temporary chief constable while a replacement for Mr Jones is found.
Ms Mulligan said: “Following the decision of Chief Constable Dave Jones to retire, I have tried to balance the legitimate public interest questions of those wishing to have more information with the wishes of the chief constable that the reasons remain his own business.
“I am aware there have been rumours and gossip both internally and externally and, given this, I have decided it is important to address these, especially as I want to ensure nothing undermines the record of the chief constable who has served the public with dignity and distinction for over 32 years.
“The chief went on planned annual leave for the Easter break on Thursday March 29 and was due to return to work on Monday 16th April. During that Easter break, he let DCC Winward and myself know that he had become ill whilst on leave, this had prompted him to make the decision to retire.”
She added: “I want to conclude by saying thank you once again to Dave Jones. There is no mystery to the chief’s decision and I hope me taking this step of providing more information will allow him to get on with this recovery in peace. I am sure you will want to join with me in wishing Dave and his family all the best for the future.”