Chief Constable Richard Lewis has been announced as the preferred candidate for the role of Chief Constable for Dyfed-Powys Police in Wales.

The appointment is subject to the approval of the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Panel which is meeting on Friday 30 July 2021.

Responding to the announcement, Chief Constable Richard Lewis said:

“The improvements that we have made since I joined Cleveland Police in April 2019 are testament to the commitment, innovation and talent of officers and staff from across the force.

“This work could not be achieved without each police officer, staff member and volunteer pulling together to believe that change could happen and putting plans into action. Senior leaders in the Force will continue to drive this work forward whilst I ensure a smooth transition to a new Chief Constable. I have every faith that the Force will achieve its vision of delivering outstanding policing for communities.

“Leaving Cleveland Police is not a decision that I have taken lightly, and I have considered many different options, but I am moving back to Wales to be closer to family.

“I have now been announced as the preferred candidate to take up the role of Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys, and I whilst I look forward to this new opportunity, I will always have a strong affinity to Teesside and its people.

“The Cleveland area is such a beautiful part of the world and our local people have a community spirit second to none.”