Deputy chief Jon Boutcher set to be named new Beds Police top cop

Beds Police deputy chief constable Jon Boutcher is set to succeed Colette Paul at the helm of the force, it has been announced.
Jon BoutcherJon Boutcher
Jon Boutcher

Police and crime commissioner Olly Martins has confirmed that Mr Boutcher is his preferred candidate for the role, which was vacated by Ms Paul in June.

The appointment will now be vetted by the county police and crime panel at a meeting on September 15.

Jon Boutcher joined the force as deputy chief constable last June and has served as a police officer for 31 years.

Jon BoutcherJon Boutcher
Jon Boutcher

Following Colette Paul’s unexpected retirement Mr Boutcher took charge of Beds Police on an interim basis.

He said: ““It is a real privilege to be successful in the selection process for chief constable of this fabulous force.

“We have got lots of work to do in continuing to improve the service the force is providing to our communities and there are many challenges ahead, not only here in Bedfordshire but across policing nationally.”

PCC Olly Martins added: “Mr Boutcher demonstrated the experience, confidence and knowledge at handling the difficult and complex situations the role inevitably faces in Bedfordshire and the appointment panel and I are confident he is the right person to lead the force.”