Chief Constable Rachel Kearton

Rachel Kearton was appointed as Suffolk’s first female Chief Constable in December 2022.

CC Kearton said: “I am honoured to be Suffolk’s Chief Constable. As the county’s first female chief constable, it is an important milestone in our history and reflects the changing nature of our organisation. Society has seen many changes over the last few years. I appreciate this has led to some great challenges for our communities. It has also been a testing time for those in the policing family who work selflessly and tirelessly to ensure our county is a safe place to live, work and invest. I know Suffolk Constabulary will rise to whatever challenge it faces, as it always has done, and will continue to build on the force’s excellent performance over the years. My Chief Officer Team and I are committed to relentlessly pursuing high standards and to serving all communities, fairly and equitably. I believe the quality of officers, staff and volunteers in Suffolk is very high and I am proud to lead such an exceptionally dedicated and committed workforce.”

CC Kearton’s family has a rich tradition of public service in Suffolk.

Her parents were primary school teachers in Ipswich, while her great-grandfather was beat officer in Wrentham. Two great-uncles also became police officers.

A great-aunt was one of the first female firefighters in Suffolk, while another great-uncle was a teenage victim of the Second World War and is commemorated on a plaque on the wall of Bildeston church.

CC Kearton joined Hampshire Police in 1989. She has also served with West Yorkshire Police and Northumbria Police.

During a varied career there have also been secondments to His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Service, and the Home Office.

CC Kearton joined Suffolk Constabulary as Assistant Chief Constable in 2015, after a career break working for the British Embassy in Ankara, Turkey. She was promoted to Deputy Chief Constable four years later.

CC Kearton is currently the national lead for Workforce Representation and Diversity.

She was previously the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Alcohol Harm and Vulnerability, and for Acid and Corrosive Substance Attacks.