County's new top cop set to be former constable who rose through the ranks
He joined Leicestershire Police as a constable 27 years ago and David Sandall is shortly expected to be appointed as the county’s top cop.
Mr Sandall stepped up from Deputy Chief Constable to Temporary Chief Constable on Rob Nixon’s retirement last year and he has been named by Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews as his preferred candidate for the role of Chief Constable.
The announcement follows a robust and competitive selection process carried out in line with the College of Policing’s recruitment requirements.
This included assessments by both internal and external stakeholder groups and an in-depth presentation and formal interview.
An interview panel consisting of Mr Matthews, local business leader Martin Traynor OBE, Callum Faint Leicestershire’s Chief Fire Officer and Pam Kelly, senior policing advisor, ensured full transparency and impartiality of the decision-making process. The appointment will now be subject to a confirmation hearing by the Police and Crime Panel.
Mr Sandall has held a range of operational and investigative leadership roles across local policing, safeguarding, serious and organised crime, intelligence and criminal justice.
He hit the headlines recently after giving chase and detaining a teenager who had pulled a knife on a player in a local football match while he was off-duty.
T/Chief Constable Sandall said: “I am extremely honoured to be named as the preferred candidate for Chief Constable of my home force Leicestershire Police.
“Serving the communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland remains the of the utmost importance to me – preventing and detecting crime, supporting victims and carrying out investigations to the highest standard while continuing strong engagement with local residents, businesses and partners and delivering the priorities which have been set out in the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.
“Leading this outstanding force as Temporary Chief Constable for the past 16 months, I have seen our officers, staff and volunteers demonstrating exceptional commitment, care and professionalism every single day.
"Leading them is a responsibility I am extremely proud to take on and an absolute privilege which I do not underestimate.
“I am grateful to the Police and Crime Commissioner and those involved in the interview process for their support and endorsement of this position.”
Mr Matthews commented: “I am pleased to announce David Sandall as my preferred candidate for Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police.
“David’s extensive policing and leadership experience speaks for itself, but what particularly impressed the panel was his deep understanding of Leicestershire’s unique communities, demographics and challenges.
"This insight has been developed through an exceptional 27-year career serving with the force.
“He brings a thorough knowledge of our city and counties, alongside a strong track record of delivering meaningful and lasting progress.
"The panel is confident that, under his leadership, Leicestershire Police will continue to build on its achievements and strive for excellence.
“Above all, David demonstrated a genuine passion for and commitment to working collaboratively with residents, community leaders and partner organisations to support the safety, health and prosperity of our communities.
“I have every confidence that he possesses the vision, integrity and leadership qualities needed to further strengthen Leicestershire Police’s reputation as an outstanding and innovative force, while ensuring people not only are safe, but feel safe too.”