Chief Constable to stay on for two more years, PCC confirms

Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Alison Hernandez, has confirmed that Chief Constable James Vaughan has agreed to remain in role, ensuring stable leadership of Devon & Cornwall Police until August 2028.

The contract extension means Vaughan will remain in post beyond the government's planned abolition of the Police and Crime Commissioner role in May 2028.

Commissioner Hernandez welcomed the extension, pointing to what she described as significant progress made under Vaughan's leadership since he took up the role in December 2024. "I am delighted that Chief Constable James Vaughan has agreed to stay on until August 2028," she said. "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.

"Under his leadership, we have seen important cultural improvements within the organisation that are now translating into tangible improvements in performance and service delivery for our communities. The force is no longer subject to enhanced monitoring by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, we are seeing improvements in 101 and 999 call answering times, and Operation Resolve is returning more officers to frontline policing where they are needed most.

"These are important achievements and demonstrate the progress being made across the force. I know many share my view that James' decision to continue serving the people of Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly is extremely welcome news. 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."

Vaughan said he was honoured to continue in the role. "I am honoured to continue serving as Chief Constable of Devon & Cornwall Police and grateful for the confidence the Police and Crime Commissioner has placed in me," he said. "While there is still more work to do, we have made important progress together thanks to the dedication and professionalism of our officers, staff and volunteers.

"We are improving the service we provide to the public, strengthening our performance and continuing to build trust and confidence in policing. 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."

Since his appointment in December 2024, Vaughan has led a programme of organisational improvement focused on strengthening performance, rebuilding public confidence and improving outcomes for communities across the force area. The contract extension provides continuity of leadership as Devon & Cornwall Police continues its work to improve public services while tackling crime and protecting vulnerable people across the region.