Where is Our Chief Constable? Liberal Democrats Call for Action Over Leadership Crisis in West Mercia Police.

The Liberal Democrats have raised urgent concerns over the ongoing lack of leadership at West Mercia Police, highlighting the risks this poses to public safety across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, and Telford and Wrekin.

Councillor Sam Evans, who represents the Slideslow seat for the Liberal Democrats, has criticised the prolonged absence of a substantive Chief Constable following the departure of Pippa Mills in October 2023.

Leadership gaps have been compounded by the bungled appointment of Commander Kyle Gordon from the Metropolitan Police and subsequent delays in initiating a recruitment process.

Councillor Evans commented: "Our elected Police and Crime Commissioner needs to start the process to recruit a permanent Chief Constable. This is a real disservice to the people of West Mercia and the hardworking officers and staff who continue to serve and protect us despite this chaos."

The Acting Chief Constable, Alex Murray, is set to leave West Mercia for a senior role at the National Crime Agency, leaving Assistant Chief Constable Richard Cooper to temporarily fill the leadership void. Despite this, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion has yet to announce clear plans for a recruitment process, further exacerbating the uncertainty.

The Liberal Democrats are calling for the Labour government to review the limited powers of the Police and Crime Panel to ensure stronger oversight of PCCs, as well as urging His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) to investigate the current situation in West Mercia.

ENDS