Amanda Pearson named Dorset’s ‘preferred’ new Chief Constable

Amanda Pearson has been selected as the ‘preferred’ new Chief Constable for Dorset, subject to ratification of the appointment by the Dorset Police and Crime panel in February.

Ms Pearson has 29 years’ experience in policing within different forces - including the City of London, Thames Valley and Hertfordshire - and is currently the national Chief Constable’s lead for stop and search, as well as temporary Assistant Commissioner for the Metropolitan Police Service.

She will be replacing existing Dorset Chief, Scott Chilton, who is making the move back to Hampshire to head up the force there.

Pearson and two other unnamed candidates underwent an intensive two-day interview process; they were grilled by the appointment panel, completed a filmed media exercise and were interviewed further by internal and external stakeholders.

“I am honoured and delighted to be accepted as the Police and Crime Commissioner's preferred candidate to be the Chief Constable of Dorset," said Amanda, who lives in Ferndown. "I am excited by the prospect of being police constable of my home patch, working closely with our communities, partners and the PCC to ensure Dorset is safe for everyone who lives, works and visits here.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick made the announcement earlier today, saying: “I wanted someone who had experience across a number of forces, had worked across the breadth of policing, understood the diversity of Dorset and the needs of an urban, coastal and rural community.

“Amanda has shown through her many years of experience in policing, dealing with significant challenges, that she is very much the right person for the job.”

He thanked the outgoing chief, saying: “I wish Scott all the very best when he leaves Dorset Police and would like to thank him on behalf of Dorset’s communities for his commitment to keeping this county safe.

“Scott has shown strong leadership during his time with Dorset Police, first as deputy chief constable from 2020 and then as chief constable following his promotion last summer.

“I am particularly grateful for his work in implementing Dorset Police’s new vision, ensuring that the Force, the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan and the people are all in alignment.”

By Emily McGregor, Local News and Lifestyle Reporter

Image: Dorset PCC