Chief Constable Sir Paul Scott-Lee to leave West Midlands Police from May 2009
Thursday, 30 October, 2008
Today West Midlands Police Authority has been informed by Chief Constable Sir Paul Scott-Lee that he has decided not to renew his contract, which comes to an end on 30 April 2009.
While the Authority would have been delighted to have extended his contract, Sir Paul felt the time was right for a new Chief Constable to take over and build on the incredible successes that the force has achieved.
"On behalf of the Authority and the communities we serve, I wish to place on record the fantastic work of Sir Paul during his time with the force," said Diana Holl-Allen, chairman of the Authority.
"In his seven years as Chief Constable, the people of the West Midlands have enjoyed unprecedented reductions in crime*. Overall crime is currently at its lowest for 18 years and, just as importantly, our communities tell us they are feeling safer.
"Sir Paul has always been driven by a personal commitment to improving the quality of life for all of our communities, as reflected in the delivery of his vision for the force of reducing crime and the fear of crime and making people feel safer.
"His leadership has motivated and inspired his officers, staff, colleagues and partners and he leaves behind a tremendous legacy. His decision to leave the organisation is a very sad day - both for the force itself and for the people of the West Midlands.
"The Authority would like to wish the Chief Constable every success for the future."
Chief Constable Sir Paul Scott-Lee said: "This is undoubtedly one of the hardest decisions I have had to make in my career.
"It has been a tremendous privilege to lead West Midlands Police and it is with great pride that I reflect upon the successes achieved during my time as Chief Constable. This would not have been possible without the unstinting support of the Police Authority.
"I would particularly like to pay tribute to the dedicated and professional staff who I have worked alongside during my tenure as Chief Constable and I wish them and the force continued success."
