DEVON‘S chief constable will remain in the role until August 2028, providing continuity of leadership beyond the Government’s planned abolition of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s post.

Chief Constable James Vaughan has agreed to extend his contract and will continue to lead Devon & Cornwall Police for a further two years, Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has confirmed.

The extension means Mr Vaughan will remain chief constable beyond May 2028, when the Government plans to abolish the role of Police and Crime Commissioner.

Mr Vaughan was appointed chief constable in December 2024 and has since overseen a programme of organisational improvement aimed at strengthening performance, rebuilding public confidence and improving services.

Ms Hernandez said his decision to remain in post was ‘extremely welcome news’, pointing to improvements made by the force during his leadership.

She said Devon & Cornwall Police was no longer subject to enhanced monitoring by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), while 101 and 999 call-answering times had improved.

She also highlighted Operation Resolve, which she said was returning more officers to frontline policing.

‘Since taking up the role of Chief Constable in December 2024, James has provided strong and effective leadership during a period of significant change for Devon & Cornwall Police’, Ms Hernandez said.

‘While there remains much work to do, I am confident that the force will continue to benefit from James’ experience, commitment and leadership over the next two years’.

Mr Vaughan said he was ‘honoured’ to continue serving as chief constable and thanked the commissioner for her confidence in him.

He said the force had made ‘important progress together’ through the work of its officers, staff and volunteers, adding that it was improving the service provided to the public and strengthening performance.

‘I look forward to working with colleagues and partners over the next two years as we continue to tackle crime, protect vulnerable people and deliver the high-quality policing service our communities deserve’, he said.