Police Chief steps down after force placed in Special Measures

GMP Chief Constable Ian Hopkins

The Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police has announced he’s standing down from the role after the force was placed into special measures.

Ian Hopkins has been leading the force for the past 13-years but a damning report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary on Thursday placed them in special measures after it was revealed officers had failed to record 80,000 crimes in a single year.

As a result of the report, Ian Hopkins has taken the decision to stand down with immediate effect.

In a statement released on Friday, Mr Hopkins said: “These are challenging times for Greater Manchester Police. The force has a long-term strategic plan to address the issues raised by the HMIC and I believe this plan should be led by a Chief Constable who can oversee it from start to finish.

“Considering what is best for GMP and the communities we serve, and given my current ill health, I have decided to stand down from the post of Chief Constable with immediate effect.”

The Chief Constable announced earlier this year that he was on sick leave.

His statement continued: “It has been an honour to serve the public for 32 years, nearly 13 of which as a Chief Officer in GMP. Throughout my career I have been committed to achieving the best outcomes for the people I serve. The decision to stand down is not one I have taken lightly but I feel the time is right.

“I was due to retire in autumn 2021 and bringing that date forward assists in the timely recruitment of my successor.

“I would like to pay tribute to my colleagues and the many dedicated officers and staff I have had the privilege of working with throughout my service.”

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