Police reshuffle continues as search for new chief constable continues

Assistant chief constable Darren Best has stepped up to the position of deputy chief constable on a temporary basis.

That comes after deputy chief constable Winton Keenan was promoted to the position of acting chief constable ahead of the retirement of chief constable Steve Ashman next month.

Darren joined Northumbria Police from the Cleveland force last January, and has vast experience in areas including safeguarding, homicide, intelligence and serious and organised crime.

He has continued as a member of the chief officer team at Northumbria Police and has held portfolios in safeguarding, crime, victims services, operations and neighbourhood policing.

He has overseen policing operations for events such as the Tall Ships Regatta in Blyth, the general election, large scale protests and football matches.

Darren said: “I am delighted that acting chief constable Keenen has asked me to take on the role of acting deputy chief constable.

“I have been here for nearly two years now and have been incredibly impressed by the dedication, professionalism and talent of the officers and staff who work here.

“This really is a really fantastic police force and I am incredibly proud of the work we are doing to keep people safe and protect some of the most vulnerable people in society.

“I will always work hard to support our officers and staff so that together we can continue to deliver an outstanding service to the people of Northumbria.”

Darren began his career in 1989 at South Bank, Middlesbrough, as a probationer.

Since then, he has worked his way through the policing ranks, gaining experience in public protection, child protection and professional standards.

He was the district commander for Stockton from 2010 to 2012, before being promoted to the role of head of crime and criminal justice in Cleveland.