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Dorset’s Top Police Officer Amanda Pearson to Step Down This Summer

Thursday, 19 February 2026 01:17

After more than 33 years in policing – including the past three as Chief Constable of Dorset Police – Amanda Pearson has confirmed she will retire this summer.

Chief Constable Pearson said it has been a privilege to lead the force in the county where she lives and described her time in Dorset as a proud chapter in a long policing career.

She thanked officers, staff and volunteers for their dedication and support over the years, as well as the people of Dorset for the trust and encouragement they have shown her.

She said Dorset remains one of the safest counties in the country, with improving crime detection rates and continued progress in the service offered to victims and communities. Despite financial challenges, she said the force has shown resilience and maintained careful financial management.

Although she will step down this summer, she stressed she remains fully committed to her role in the months ahead. She also thanked the Police and Crime Commissioner for his support and welcomed the upcoming recruitment process to appoint a new Chief Constable to ensure the force continues its strong local focus and positive direction.

The Police and Crime Commissioner is expected to begin the formal process of recruiting her successor shortly.

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