by Laura Slominski

Scott Chilton, a 49-year-old police veteran with 31 years of experience, has taken up his position as Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s first ‘home grown’ chief constable, with a “commitment to provide exceptional local policing”.

Chilton started his career in the force as an 18-year-old and served nearly all of his career there, working his way through uniform policing and spending 16 years as a detective. He has also undertaken a range of strategic roles leading policing commands, most recently as chief constable in Dorset and as the national lead for investigations.

He emphasised the importance of strong relationships with local communities in policing, stating that it is the “bedrock” of policing and that people want to feel connected with their local teams and feel safe.

He also outlined his commitment to “relentlessly pursue those who commit crime” and bring harm and misery to communities, providing first class investigations to ensure those responsible face the consequences of their actions, with kindness and compassion being at the heart of their response to victims.

Chief Constable Chilton is also a resident of Hampshire, with many of his family and friends living here, and expressed that both personally and professionally, he has the same expectations as the community.

He added that he is committed to making sure that Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is safe for everyone.