Police boss to stay until 2030 as contract extended

Chief Constable Catherine Roper's contract has been extended until 2030

The boss of Wiltshire Police is set to remain in post until 2030 after her contract was extended by five years.

Chief Constable Catherine Roper took on the top role at the force in February 2023, having previously spent 22 years working for the Metropolitan Police.

Wiltshire Police was moved out of special measures under her leadership, although inspectors said concerns remained over how the force investigated crime and protected vulnerable people.

Ms Roper said: "Having made some significant progress over the past few years, we are still navigating some real challenges – not least the financial pressures on our organisation – but I aspire for us to be a truly outstanding force."

The extension of Ms Roper's contract for the £149,799-a-year role comes days after inspectors told the force it needs to improve how it investigates complaints and allegations of misconduct.

It was also told it must improve its vetting of officers and staff, how it tackles potential corruption and the upholding of professional standards of behaviour.

Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson, whose role it is to hold the chief constable to account, said Ms Roper had a "relentless focus" on the communities the force serves.

He said she had overseen a reduction in crime as well as improvements to community relations and policing and operational performance.

"Catherine Roper has proven she can deliver change, drive performance and maintain public confidence," he added.

Ms Roper said: "I look forward with the same determination and ambition for the force I had when I was appointed in 2023 and pledge to do all I can to ensure we are keeping Wiltshire safe."