Police Scotland officers recognised in New Year Honours List
Chief Constable Jo Farrell, two serving, and one former Police Scotland officer, have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours for their significant contribution to policing.
Ms Farrell, Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan and retired Assistant Chief Constable Andy Freeburn have all received the King’s Police Medal (KPM).
Police Constable Yocksan Bell has been appointed MBE for services to Young People and Missing Persons.
Former Scottish Police Authority (SPA) Chief Executive Lynn Brown who retired earlier this year, has been awarded an CBE for services to Policing and Public Services.
Ms Farrell said: “I am personally, and on behalf of policing in Scotland, honoured and grateful to receive the King’s Police Medal.
“I also offer warm congratulation to Stevie, Andy, Yocksan and Lynn.
“These honours are recognition of the skill and hard work of officers and staff who deliver for communities and keep Scotland safe.”
Ms Farrell joined the police as a constable in Cambridge in 1991. In 2002, she joined Northumbria Police, initially as a chief inspector, and was promoted to assistant chief constable, with responsibility for response and neighbourhood policing as well as the communications department.
She joined Durham Constabulary in November 2016 as deputy chief constable before being appointed chief constable in June 2019. Chief Constable Farrell chairs the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s Digital Data and Technology Coordination Committee.
In October 2023, Ms Farrell entered office at Police Scotland.
SPA chair Fiona McQueen said: “I am delighted to congratulate Chief Constable Jo Farrell, Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan, and retired Assistant Chief Constable Andy Freeburn on their King’s Police Medals. I also warmly welcome the award of a CBE to the Authority’s former Chief Executive, Lynn Brown, in recognition of her significant contribution to policing, and the award of an MBE to Constable Yocksan Bell, for his services to young people and missing persons.
“These honours rightly recognise exceptional leadership, outstanding service and a deep commitment to policing and keeping people safe.”
Ms Brown CBE said: “I am truly honoured to receive a CBE for services to policing and public service. This recognition reflects not individual effort alone, but the collective contribution of the many colleagues I have had the privilege to work with over many years, including at the SPA. I am deeply grateful to them and proud to have served alongside such dedicated public servants.”