STORY
Essex Police Chief Constable BJ Harrington has announced he is to retire, bringing to an end a 36-year career in policing. Mr Harrington began his career with the Metropolitan Police in 1990 before joining Essex Police on secondment as Deputy Chief Constable in 2017. He became Chief Constable the following year and has led the force for the past eight years.
In a statement, he said serving as Chief Constable had been “so much more than a job”, describing Essex Police as his “life and family” during his time in charge. He paid tribute to officers, staff and volunteers, as well as emergency service colleagues, local government, voluntary and community partners and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst.
Mr Harrington said the force had made progress in preventing and reducing crime, solving more offences, supporting victims, using technology and reshaping the organisation for future challenges. He added that he was grateful to the people of Essex, saying the county had secured “the most special place” in his heart. A process to appoint his successor will be announced by Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst in due course.