LESS than 24 hours after the election of the new police and crime commissioner, the chief constable of Essex is planning to stand down.
Jim Barker-McCardle has been in the hot seat for just over three years and according to sources intends to stand down before the end of his contract.
Jim Barker-McCardle stated his decision in an e-mail to all Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) candidates on 26 October, sources have confirmed.
It is understood that the e-mail stated he had told the police authority of his intention to leave for personal reasons, but he has not set a date for his departure.
Essex Police said all PCC candidates were told before the election.
Sources confirmed Mr Barker-McCardle’s e-mail explained he did not want his decision to be linked to the new Police and Crime Commissioner.
A force spokesman said: “The priority of the chief constable is to welcome the newly elected Police and Crime Commissioner to ensure the very best police service is delivered to the diverse communities of Essex.
“As a courtesy, the chief constable wrote to all PCC candidates before the election about his future plans, but his current focus remains firmly on supporting Nick Alston in the weeks ahead and policing Essex.”
