Interim Chief Constable Pledges Continued Focus on Combating Violence Against Women and Girls

The interim police chief has stated her intention to retain her national portfolio addressing violence against women and girls throughout her tenure. Maggie Blyth assumed the role of interim Chief Constable for Gloucestershire Police on October 22. This appointment followed the suspension of Rod Hansen, who is currently under investigation due to allegations of gross misconduct. The police and crime commissioner appointed Ms. Blyth to the temporary position, for which she is required to formally apply. Regarding her interim capacity, she affirmed, “I have full powers to do anything that is necessary.” Prior to Ms. Blyth commencing her duties, the force had operated for two weeks without either a chief or a deputy. Shaun West, who previously served as deputy chief constable, retired during the summer amid a criminal investigation and allegations of misconduct, which he refutes. Additionally, Gary Thompson, the chief of staff, was also suspended. An investigation into allegations of gross misconduct concerning computer misuse is currently pending. Ms. Blyth acknowledged that her appointment occurred under “an unusual set of circumstances,” having been seconded to the position from the College of Policing. Ms. Blyth expressed gratitude to her “superb” executive team. She stated, “Police officers are getting on with the job they do everyday… and my sense, having met the people I have done over the last few days, is that it really is business as usual in Gloucestershire.” Ms. Blyth has served as a chief officer for five-and-a-half years, including time as an Assistant Chief Constable in the adjacent forces of Wiltshire and Hampshire, where she noted “very similar needs to Gloucestershire.” “I’ve held a deputy role now for three years, so I have a lot of experience as a chief officer and I’m really pleased to now be the chief constable,” Ms. Blyth commented. Ms. Blyth’s professional background is in public protection, encompassing the oversight of cases related to domestic abuse, rape, stalking, and child abuse. She stated, “In Gloucestershire, we have a good track record at the moment for undertaking, investigating those sorts of crimes and I will continue to hold a national portfolio in relation to violence against women and girls that I’ve held for the last three years.” Ms. Blyth also mentioned that she expects to learn whether she has been appointed as Chief Constable “in the next few weeks.” Readers can follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or submit story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.