Interim Warwickshire Police chief vows to 'learn from mistakes'

Alex Franklin-Smith has been appointed as Chief Constable of Warwickshire Police
-Credit: (Image: Warwickshire Police)


A well-respected Warwickshire Police officer who joined more than a decade ago has been appointed as the new interim Chief Constable. Alex Franklin-Smith yesterday (October 12) pledged to listen to suggestions from the public and 'learn from mistakes.'

Temporary Chief Constable Mr Franklin-Smith said in a statement that Warwickshire Police cared 'passionately about victims of crime.' He took up the position two weeks ago following the retirement of Debbie Tedds, who described her tenure as the 'privilege of my life.'

Mr Franklin-Smith will temporarily step in to serve the people of Bedworth, Nuneaton, Rugby, Stratford, Warwick, and Leamington Spa. Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Philip Seccombe will be conducting a recruitment process to appoint a permanent new lead.

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Mr Franklin-Smith said: “Policing in the United Kingdom operates with the consent of the public, and when we damage the trust and confidence that the public has in us, the work of my officers and staff becomes much harder. We know we do not always get it right, but we will work hard to learn from mistakes when they are made, and we will be relentless in our pursuit to continually improve what we do and how we do it.”

He will be travelling across the UK in the coming days to meet both staff and members of the public and said his plans for the future 'remain strong.' He said: “I will be listening to what my officers and staff have to say, but equally importantly, I will be listening to what you have to say about how we can improve the service we provide on your behalf.”

Mr Franklin-Smith added that he felt 'fortunate' to lead a workforce of dedicated and committed officers and vowed to 'protect people from harm.' He said: “In Warwickshire, we care passionately about victims of crime, and together with our many partners, we will continue to work hard to bring more offenders to justice.

“I am confident that our plans for the future remain strong, as do our aims to deliver the very best possible policing services for the public.” Mr Franklin-Smith also wished Ms Tedds 'a very happy and healthy retirement.'

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