PCC welcomes new chief constable of Hertfordshire Constabulary

The PCC was at police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City on Tuesday afternoon (January 7) to witness Mr Prophet’s official swearing in ceremony.

Justice of the Peace Annie Brewster conducted Mr Prophet’s declaration to serve the office on behalf of the King with “fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality”.

Last month, Mr Prophet was proposed by Mr Ash-Edwards as his preferred candidate and his selection was unanimously supported by the Hertfordshire Police and Crime Panel.

Mr Prophet began his new role on January 1.

Mr Ash-Edwards said: “I am delighted to welcome Andy Prophet to Hertfordshire Constabulary. He has already hit the ground running with a tour of the county’s police stations to meet officers and staff.

“His appointment marks an exciting new chapter in policing in Hertfordshire as he builds on the solid foundations which have been set and takes on those areas where improvements are needed.

“I am looking forward to working with the chief constable to keep Hertfordshire safe and on the implementation of my forthcoming Police and Crime Plan.”

Mr Prophet said: “One week into my role as chief constable I have enjoyed getting out and talking to colleagues across the constabulary.

“It’s clear to me they share my desire to keep people safe and catching criminals in the county.

“My focus is on supporting them to do their job and working work with the commissioner and partners to ensure we make Hertfordshire even safer.”

Mr Prophet has been a police officer for 28 years and was previously the deputy chief constable at Essex Police.

He spent his first ten years working as a patrol constable and then a response team and custody sergeant. He has held a number of leadership positions with the majority focused on leading geographical policing teams, working closely with partners, with the ultimate goal of preventing crime and catching criminals.

He has been responsible for overall force performance, building public trust and confidence, promoting professional standards as well as delivering strategic change and innovation.