New Chief Constable Chilton Takes Charge in Dorset
Chief Constable Jon Chilton has stepped up to lead Dorset Police following the retirement of James Vaughan. Chilton, previously Deputy Chief Constable since 2020, hit the ground running this week, vowing to make Dorset a nightmare for criminals.
“Making Dorset Hostile for Offenders”
Chilton told us, “I want to make Dorset as hostile a place as possible for any offender or criminal so our communities are safe and feel safe.” Despite Dorset’s low and falling crime rates, Chilton is keen to target those who disrupt community life and work closely with partners to boost residents’ quality of life.
From West Yorkshire to Policing Powerhouse
- Aged 48, Chilton grew up in West Yorkshire.
- He started his career in 1992 as a constable in Portsmouth.
- He’s got international policing chops, having served in Afghanistan (2009-2011) and worked on police reform across Europe.
- Closer to home, Chilton has experience in counter terrorism, special branch, operations, public contact, and strategic partnerships with Hampshire Police.
- He rose to Assistant Chief Constable before moving to Dorset last year.
Driving Force Behind Dorset’s Future Policing
Chilton highlighted the role of the new Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, soon to unveil his police and crime plan — which will shape Dorset’s policing priorities. “Collaboration and partnerships are key,” Chilton stressed. “Policing cannot operate in isolation.”
He added, “Maintaining visibility and engaging with communities are top priorities for me and my teams. Dorset deserves a first-class policing service that keeps every urban, rural, and coastal community safe.”
Chilton praised his team’s performance over the past 18 months amid tough challenges and high demand. “I’m proud to lead a force with strong community resilience and partnership links. Together, we’ll make a real difference.”
