STEPHEN\u00a0Watson is set to be\u00a0named as the new Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police.<\/p>\n
Mr Watson, currently the Deputy Chief Constable of Durham Constabulary, is PCC Dr Alan Billings’ “preferred candidate” to take over the role.<\/p>\n
Neil Bowles, Chairman of South Yorkshire Police Federation, said the incoming chief needed to “boost morale” at the force.<\/p>\n
He added: \u201cStephen Watson is becoming South Yorkshire Police’s\u00a0Chief Constable at the most vital time in our history. Richard Wells came in the 90\u2019s post Hillsborough\u00a0–\u00a0he totally changed the culture of the organisation.<\/p>\n
“He did that, along with his successors, with increasing resources which resulted in more staff. Officers and staff were joining having been brought up in a more liberal society, a technologically advancing society.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever we are now faced with a large number of problems and reducing budgets. We need a leader to boost morale and create structures work for all of us in South Yorkshire, public and officers. In that work I hope he works closely with the Federation as we are the voice of the service. I wish him all the best and sincerely hope he succeeds for all parties\u2019 sake.\u201d<\/p>\n
Policing and Crime Commissioner Dr Alan Billings said: “South Yorkshire Police is one of the most high profile forces in the country at the present time and I am confident that, subject to Police and Crime Panel approval, we have selected a chief constable who will be able to lead the force through transformational change as we continue to restore trust and confidence with our public, partners and staff.<\/p>\n
“Mr Watson impressed us all with his experience, energy, drive and leadership qualities.”<\/p>\n
Mr Watson, who began his police career at Lancashire Constabulary in 1988, was one of three candidates interviewed for the job.<\/p>\n
He said he was “delighted” to be selected and is “looking forward to taking up the role”.<\/p>\n
He added: “I fully recognise the difficulties that the force has faced in recent times and I am committed to leading the organisation through times of change.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Watson has previously worked at Merseyside Police as Chief Superintendent and the Metropolitan Police as Commander for the East Area. He joined Durham Constabulary in 2015.<\/p>\n
Prior to his suspension, Mr Crompton had intended to step down in November after four years in the post and 31 years in policing.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n