Devon and Cornwall Police, currently embroiled in controversy, has requested emergency government funding to cover the salaries of three chief constables simultaneously, as two of its top officers remain suspended pending investigations.
The force first faced turmoil in July when Chief Constable Will Kerr was suspended following serious allegations of sexual offences in Northern Ireland, which he denies. This marked the beginning of a turbulent period for the beleaguered force. The scandal deepened last month when Kerr’s temporary replacement, Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell, was also suspended.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched a probe into Colwell, citing allegations of gross misconduct. The investigation concerns his use of a work-issued mobile phone to exchange personal messages and his involvement in a disciplinary matter within the force.
Unprecedented leadership crisis
Both suspended officers are receiving their full annual salaries of approximately £180,000 each, while the newly appointed Acting Chief Constable, James Vaughan, formerly of Dorset Police, is also on the payroll. This situation has left the force spending over £540,000 a year on chief constable salaries alone, prompting Devon and Cornwall Police to seek financial relief from the Home Office.
Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Alison Hernandez has defended her decisions amid mounting criticism. Addressing the issue, she said:
“Suspending a chief constable is not a decision taken lightly. I have to consider public interest, confidence in policing, and whether the officer’s continuation in their role would be tenable under the circumstances.”
Hernandez also pushed back against calls for her resignation, arguing that she acted in line with her responsibilities:
“When serious allegations with evidence are brought to my attention, I must act. It’s disappointing that a woman making these decisions faces personal attacks, as though it’s her fault when men are accused.”
Community outcry and criticism
The leadership crisis has sparked outrage and concern among local residents and officials. Exeter MP Steve Race expressed frustration with the situation, stating:
“We are now on our second acting chief constable, paying for three chief constables at once. This is hardly value for money. Devon and Cornwall Police is underperforming on at least four out of eight measures, and it’s clear we need a reset in leadership to restore public trust.”
The force’s struggles are compounded by its history of challenges. Mr. Kerr was brought in to lead the force in 2022 when it was placed under special measures. Despite his decorated career, including an OBE and the King’s Police Medal, his suspension has further damaged public confidence in policing.
Calls for accountability
Critics have questioned both the operational and political leadership of the force. Some residents have called for structural changes to improve transparency and accountability within the police.
The PCC’s decision to suspend Colwell was not without its share of controversy. Speaking to the BBC, Hernandez emphasised that she prioritised public confidence in policing over convenience:
“The evidence presented necessitated the suspension. It was an extremely difficult decision, but ensuring the integrity of the force is paramount.”
Ongoing investigations
The allegations against Mr. Kerr date back to incidents alleged to have occurred in 2015 and 2016. The investigation, led by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland, remains ongoing. Meanwhile, the IOPC continues its probe into Mr. Colwell’s alleged misconduct.
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Strain on resources and public trust
The financial strain caused by paying three chief constables simultaneously is just one of several challenges facing Devon and Cornwall Police. Residents and local leaders are growing increasingly concerned about the impact on public services and the force’s ability to perform its duties effectively.
A Home Office spokesperson acknowledged the force’s difficulties and reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing systemic issues:
“We recognise the strain on Devon and Cornwall Police and are working closely with local stakeholders to ensure public safety and restore confidence in policing.”
Future of the force
As the investigations continue, residents across Devon and Cornwall hope for resolution and stability within their police force. The focus now turns to rebuilding public trust, improving operational performance, and ensuring the force delivers the effective policing the community deserves.
For now, the force faces a daunting task: navigating its most significant leadership crisis in decades while addressing the broader challenges of public scrutiny and operational inefficiencies.
