THE police and crime commissioner (PCC) has named her proposed appointment for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s next chief constable.

Donna Jones has named Scott Chilton, the current chief constable of Dorset Police, as her proposed appointment for the role currently held by Olivia Pinkney, who announced she would be retiring from policing in spring 2023.

PCC Donna Jones said: “After a comprehensive selection process I am delighted to announce Scott Chilton as my preferred candidate to be appointed as next chief constable of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.”

Scott started his policing career in Hampshire in 1992, working his way up through the ranks to assistant chief constable after 16 years of service.

He left Hampshire in 2020 to take up the role of deputy chief constable for Dorset Police before being appointed as Dorset’s chief constable in July 2021.

PCC Jones continued: “Scott is a highly experienced senior police officer, and I am very much looking forward to working closely with him.”

Scott Chilton was chosen following an intensive formal application and interview process per national regulations.

The appointment is subject to a confirmation hearing by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary Police and Crime Panel, which is expected to take place on November 21.