Sussex Police chief constable welcomed with formal ceremony

Today (Monday, July 13) Jo Shiner was formally welcomed as the new Chief Constable during a ceremony at Sussex Police headquarters in Lewes.

Police and crime commissioner Katy Bourne and chief constable Jo Shiner

On Tuesday June 30 the appointment of Mrs Shiner by Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne was unanimously supported by the county’s Police and Crime Panel.

She has since pledged to make Sussex Police tougher on tackling criminality, even more supportive to victims of crime and to make sure that more officers and PCSOs are engaging with residents and visitors in our cities, towns and villages.

CC Shiner’s new Chief Officer and Staff Team gathered on the lawn of Malling House to witness their new Chief Constable officially presented with her warrant card and epaulettes by PCC Bourne.

Marking her first official day in the role, CC Shiner said: “I am honestly and truly honoured and humbled to be the new Chief Constable of Sussex, and as the first woman in that role, I feel privileged to make that piece of history in Sussex.”

“During my 18 months serving as Deputy Chief Constable, I have experienced the hard work and dedication of all my colleagues in Sussex Police, from our Chief Officer team to our frontline Officers and the staff who support them.

“And whilst a lot of hard work has gone in on my part, I would like to sincerely thank all those who have supported me in my role, not least my husband Andrew, as I would not have achieved this without them.

“Knowing how diligently and professionally everyone within Sussex Police works, I am confident we will continue to achieve strong results every single day, delivering on my priorities for the year ahead, which are to protect our communities, catch criminals and provide an outstanding service to victims, witnesses and the wider public.” Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne also used this opportunity to set out her policing priorities that have been informed from public consultation and feedback gathered over the last year. Mrs Bourne said: “CC Shiner is clearly passionate about this role and the positive influence she can have on officers and staff across the county. “Today is a proud moment for her and her family and I believe we have made the best decision for the future of Sussex Police and the safety of our residents. “Over the last year I have been consulting extensively with the public and will be basing my priorities, in my upcoming Police & Crime Plan, on the needs expressed by the communities Sussex Police serve. “Going forward CC Shiner has assured me that the force will be tougher on criminals, provide more visible policing, be more proactive and preventative towards tackling business crime and rural crime and work hard to shine a light on hidden harms, always striving to achieve the best possible justice outcomes for victims. “Congratulations Jo, I look forward to working closely with you and your senior team.”