Commissioner extends chief constable’s contract

Shaun Sawyer will remain as chief constable of Devon and Cornwall Police up to 2021.

Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Hogg is extending Mr Sawyer’s existing contract by three years.

“Shaun Sawyer is an excellent chief constable,” said Mr Hogg

“During his tenure, recorded crime has continued to fall, despite a climate of unprecedented public sector cuts.

“I am delighted that Shaun wants to stay and lead the continued transformation of policing in Devon and Cornwall.

“His contract was passing a mutual break point and I felt it was in the public’s and the force’s interest for him to be anchored in this role, rather than looking at the many other opportunities around the word of policing.”

Mr Sawyer became chief constable early in 2013 after a period acting into the position.

During his time as permanent chief constable, recorded crime has fallen by 10.7 per cent* in Devon and Cornwall (IoS).

“I am delighted to be given the opportunity by the PCC Tony Hogg to continue to serve as chief constable of Devon and Cornwall Police,” said Mr Sawyer.

“The officers, staff and volunteers of the force have worked tirelessly in recent years to achieve amongst the highest levels of public confidence along with some of the highest reductions in crime, seen in any force.

“They have done so in the face of adversity and often in challenging personal circumstances. It is a privilege to be granted the opportunity to serve the public and to work alongside and lead colleagues now and into the future.”

*Total recorded crime in the year 02/02/2012 to 01/02/2013 stood at 86,602. Total recorded crime in the year 02/02/2015 to 01/02/2016 stood at 77,302. This equates to a 10.7% decrease over this period.