Sussex Police chief constable to step down

Martin Richards has decided to retire after nearly 32 years in policing - nine of which spent in the top position.

The decision will take effect as of March 2014.

“This is not a decision I have taken lightly,” he said.

“My career as a police officer has been a rewarding one and it has been a particular privilege to serve as chief constable of Sussex.

“It had always been my intention to retire as is usual after 30 years service, but I felt it right to support first the Police Authority in their final months and then the newly elected police and crime commissioner through into her second year in office.”

He continued: “It has been my good fortune to serve alongside high quality staff at all levels and to work with talented and committed partners who have the best interests of Sussex at heart.

“I could reflect on six successive years of crime reduction and a transformational business plan ‘Serving Sussex 2015’, which is safely on track to deliver £52 million in savings. But instead and more importantly, I shall remember with affection and admiration a workforce which consistently demonstrates the highest qualities of compassion, courage, a sense of justice and above all an overwhelming desire to serve.”