Report by Duncan Williams @ViewNewsUK
The Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez, has taken the decision to suspend the Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall due to allegations of misconduct. The allegations reportedly pertain to sexual offences that occurred in Northern Ireland.
The individual in question is Will Kerr (pictured), who assumed his role as Chief Constable in December. Prior to this appointment, he served as a deputy chief constable in Scotland and had an impressive career spanning over 27 years with the Police Service of Northern Ireland. During his tenure, he rose to the rank of Assistant Chief Constable for Crime and Operations, where he played a pivotal role in tackling serious crime and counter terrorism.
While stationed in Belfast, Kerr was responsible for overseeing the policing of major events within the city and served as the Strategic Commander during the parading season in Northern Ireland.
As a response to these serious allegations, Commissioner Alison Hernandez has taken the necessary step of referring the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). This independent body has confirmed its commitment to launching a thorough investigation into the case.
On the Devon and Cornwall police force website, Chief Constable Will Kerr is described as "a very experienced firearms commander and has significant investigative expertise in serious and organised crime, and counter-terrorism."
The Commissioner has now referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which has confirmed it will begin an investigation.
Jim Colwell, now the Acting Chief Constable, said: "I understand our communities will be concerned about the reports in the media today regarding the suspension of Chief Constable Will Kerr by the Police and Crime Commissioner."
"I will be stepping into the role of Acting Chief Constable on an interim basis to ensure consistency of leadership and service delivery of policing across the peninsula."
"This now remains a matter for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and the IOPC to investigate."
"I am keen to reassure the public that we will maintain our focus on delivering the best possible service to our communities."
"We have thousands of dedicated and professional officers, staff, and volunteers within our force and strong leadership throughout which, when pulled together, mean we can continue to make improvements at pace to provide our communities with the highest levels of service they deserve."
"Public trust and confidence are at the very heart of our ability to police effectively, and we are incredibly proud that in Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, we have the support of our communities."
A former deputy chief constable in Scotland, Will Kerr spent over 27 years in the Police Service of Northern Ireland. He was awarded an OBE in 2015. He joined the National Crime Agency (NCA) on secondment in 2017.
( Photo: Devon & Cornwall Police. 📸 )
