Chief Constable – preferred candidate chosen
Current Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell has been chosen as the preferred candidate for Chief Constable of Dorset Police.
The decision was announced today (20 May 2026) by Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick and is subject to a confirmation hearing by the Dorset Police and Crime Panel, which will take place in July.
If confirmed, she will take over the role from Amanda Pearson, who will retire from the Force in the summer.
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said : “I am very pleased to have selected Rachel Farrell as my preferred candidate for Chief Constable of Dorset Police. Rachel brings over three decades of policing experience, with a strong background in tackling serious and complex crime, including leading major investigations into offences such as homicide, child abuse and serious sexual crime.
She has demonstrated exceptional leadership both locally and nationally, combining operational expertise with a clear commitment to protecting vulnerable people, reducing crime and delivering justice. Her experience across neighbourhood policing, criminal justice and strategic leadership means she understands the unique challenges facing Dorset and the importance of working in partnership to keep our communities safe.
Rachel is also deeply committed to maintaining the highest standards in policing, building public trust and supporting her workforce to deliver the best possible service. I am confident she has the vision, integrity and determination needed to lead Dorset Police forward and continue our ambition of making Dorset the safest county in the country.”
DCC Rachel Farrell commented: “It is a huge honour to be selected as the preferred candidate for Chief Constable of Dorset Police. Having served in Dorset for many years, I care deeply about the communities we serve and the dedicated officers, staff and volunteers who work so hard to keep people safe every day.
I look forward to continuing to build on the strong foundations already in place across the Force, while ensuring we continue to adapt to the changing demands of policing and the needs of our communities.
I am committed to delivering a service that is visible, responsive and trusted by the public - one that is tough on crime, committed to keeping people safe and dedicated to putting victims first. Supporting and empowering our workforce will remain a priority, because when our people are equipped to succeed, they are best placed to deliver an outstanding service to the people of Dorset.”