Can James Vaughan Restore Trust in Devon and Cornwall Police?

New Chief Constable Commits to Rebuilding Public Confidence

The newly appointed Chief Constable, James Vaughan QPM, has taken the helm of Devon and Cornwall Police with a firm pledge to restore public trust and confidence in the force. James was sworn in last Friday during an attestation ceremony at the Force’s headquarters in Exeter, marking the beginning of a pivotal chapter for the police serving Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly.

A Wealth of Experience

James brings a distinguished career to the role. In 2017, he served as Deputy Chief Constable for both Devon and Cornwall Police and Dorset Police, part of the strategic alliance between the two forces. Later, he became Chief Constable of Dorset Police before retiring in 2021.

Since stepping down, James has undertaken various public service roles, including chairing the Children’s Safeguarding Partnership Board and the Home Office Offensive Weapon Homicide Review Oversight Board. His work extends internationally, having taught evidence-based policing with Cambridge University in India, alongside coaching executives and serving as a secondary school board chair of governors.

A Clear Vision for the Force

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, James expressed his pride in leading the organisation and its dedicated team. He emphasised that restoring public trust and delivering on key performance areas are his immediate priorities.

“My main priority over the coming months is to improve the Force’s performance in several key areas including crime data integrity and investigations standards – areas where HMICFRS continue to raise concern,” James said. “Together, we can rebuild trust and confidence, ensuring we remain transparent, accountable, and focused on what matters most to our communities.”

Building on Strong Foundations

James highlighted Devon and Cornwall’s low crime rates and the strong tradition of community policing as key foundations to build on. He underlined the importance of working collaboratively with officers, staff, and stakeholders, as well as aligning efforts with the Police and Crime Plan set by Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez.

Over his first week in post, James visited police stations and departments across the Force area, meeting officers and staff. “I have been struck by the depth of passion and professionalism within our workforce. The team are working hard to keep communities safe,” he said.

Commissioner’s Support

Alison Hernandez praised James’s appointment, noting the importance of addressing leadership challenges within the Force. “He and I can now focus on our mission to tackle antisocial behaviour, bring more criminals to justice and reconnect policing to the communities we serve through increased visibility and the completion of my programme to reopen 18 police enquiry offices in rural, urban and coastal communities across Devon and Cornwall,” she said.

A Transparent Approach

James has committed to visiting communities over the coming weeks to listen, understand concerns, and recognise successes. His goal is to rebuild public trust by maintaining transparency and focusing on the issues that matter most to local residents.

The appointment of James Vaughan QPM marks a new chapter for Devon and Cornwall Police, with clear goals and a renewed focus on strengthening ties with the communities it serves.