Mark Webster, Cleveland Police Chief Constable, will retire. Notice was given to PCC Matt Storey.
Storey said it is sad to see Webster go, noting that Webster deserves a break after serving the police for three decades. The police force has not commented yet. Storey shared the news in an email he sent to stakeholders. Webster was appointed in April 2022.
Former PCC Steve Turner chose Webster to replace Richard Lewis. Lewis became chief constable at Dyfed-Powys Police. Webster was Cumbria Police’s deputy chief constable. He also directed operations at the National Crime Agency. His career began in 1992 when he worked for Greater Manchester Police.
Turner called Webster a talented leader with much experience. Storey’s email mentioned Webster’s long service, nearly 34 years. Webster joined during a hard time, but he improved Cleveland Police.
He removed it from special measures and helped the force improve, creating stability and structure. Storey appreciates Webster’s professionalism, saying Webster leaves a positive legacy. Cleveland Police will improve greatly because of him.
Storey said Webster met his contract’s terms and agreed to extend it shortly to help find a successor. Storey will work with the College of Policing to find Cleveland Police’s next leader. Webster faced challenges initially.
He dealt with a force in special measures, and some thought him “completely anonymous”. He declined some panel invitations, which led people to question his commitment. He lived outside the area at first, claiming hotel stays sometimes.
Andy Cooke praised Webster later, saying Webster brought “greater stability”. The force improved gradually, and inspectors monitored the force closely. A 2019 report graded it inadequate and called it “rudderless and clueless”.
The force left monitoring in 2023. Webster was praised by Mr. Turner, who offered “outstanding leadership”. The force earned a “good” rating once, but other areas still needed improvements. Crime reduction was a major concern.
Webster answered a question in 2023 about police performance. He said the force struggled for years, and turning it around takes time. He added that progress was being made and that he wanted to accelerate progress quickly.
Webster wanted stable leadership, proactive policing, and to handle non-police demands. He aimed to make a difference in a year, with the force being better after that. Another inspection is expected soon.
Webster said the force built solid foundations. Total crime was down in December. It was the lowest in five years. Public confidence remains low, and some crimes go unreported because people cite poor police responses.
Charge rates are above average generally, but only about one in ten crimes get solved. There were other problems as well. The force must improve child exploitation cases and responses to missing children.
Webster is seen as reliable, and the force is improving under him. His departure impacts Cleveland Police, a force that has seen many leaders.