Interim Chief Constable Identified as Preferred Candidate for Warwickshire Police Role

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Warwickshire has designated the current interim chief as his favored nominee to lead the county’s police force. Conservative PCC Philip Seccombe stated that Alex Franklin-Smith, who has served as interim Chief Constable of Warwickshire Police since September, possesses the necessary qualities to assume the position permanently. Mr. Seccombe further noted that Mr. Franklin-Smith, who also holds the rank of deputy chief constable, has demonstrated “an impressive commitment to making Warwickshire a safer place for everyone.” This proposed appointment, which will undergo review by a panel, follows the retirement of Debbie Tedds after 35 years of police service. Mr. Seccombe underscored that the selection of a chief constable represents one of the PCC’s most significant responsibilities, and that the process involved a “rigorous recruitment” conducted in adherence to national regulations. He articulated his objective: “My aim throughout this process has been to select someone with the vision, energy, and determination to elevate Warwickshire Police to new heights of excellence while ensuring that victims of crime and local communities remain at the heart of everything we do.” Among his goals, Mr. Seccombe also mentioned his desire for the successful candidate to “commands the support of the police workforce” and to engage broadly with communities across the county. Mr. Franklin-Smith expressed his delight at being chosen as the preferred candidate, affirming his “absolute commitment to serving the public of Warwickshire to the best of my ability.” He added, “Warwickshire is a fantastic county that deserves to have a police force that works for everyone, especially victims of crime.” Mr. Franklin-Smith also indicated his plan to solicit public feedback on policing over the coming months, as a new policing plan for the force is currently being developed for 2025.