Police and Crime Commissioner Ian Johnston has decided not to run for re-election in May, calling time on his ‘challenging’ tenure.
“It has been a huge privilege and an honour to serve the people as Commissioner. The decision not to stand for a second term has been a difficult one for me to make.
“It has been a challenging time, but very fulfilling and I feel I have achieved everything I set out to do. It is now time for me to move on and hand over,” he said.
Mr Johnston added that PCCs have brought policing ‘more visibility and accountability’ despite what he perceived as opposition from some to the role.
“As PCC I have ensured that the plan for policing reflects what the public have told me about their priorities and concerns. I want to thank my Deputy, Paul Harris, the staff in the office, Gwent Police, and our many partners in the community for all the hard work they have put in over the last four years,” he said.
Mr Johnston highlighted the establishment of the Victim’s Charter, and a service hub for victims of crime, the first of its kind in Wales, as key achievements of his tenure.
He said the re-opening of several police stations was also a marker of the progress he made.
Mr Johnston arrived in the post with the aim of shifting a target-driven policing culture towards a system focused on policing service quality, something he says he managed to implement.
He added, “There are many initiatives that have been introduced during my tenure and whilst it has sometimes seemed like an uphill task, I have been hugely encouraged by the commitment of Gwent Police.
“The fact Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary has recently commended the force for making excellent progress is a testament to all the hard work they have put in.”
The Police and Crime Commissioner elections are set to be held in May this year.