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Lancashire Police Appoints New Assistant Chief Constable

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/04 .. lice-appoints-new-assistant-chief-constable.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 14:07 GMT by BBC
      Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

Preston, Lancashire - February 4th, 2026 - Lancashire Police today announced the appointment of Dr. Sam Smith as its new Assistant Chief Constable, signalling a clear commitment to bolstering its capabilities in the face of evolving crime landscapes, particularly those fueled by digital technologies. Dr. Smith will officially assume her duties on March 8th, 2026, stepping into the role previously held by Julie Westlake, who retired in December 2023.

The appointment isn't merely a replacement of personnel; it's a strategic move positioning Lancashire Police at the forefront of modern law enforcement. Dr. Smith arrives from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) bringing with her an impressive track record, most notably as Head of Digital Innovation. This experience is deemed pivotal in navigating the increasingly complex challenges posed by cybercrime, online exploitation, and the pervasive influence of digital platforms in both perpetrating and investigating offenses.

While traditional policing methods remain vital, the sheer volume and sophistication of digitally-enabled crime necessitate a dedicated focus on technological expertise. Lancashire, like many counties across the UK, has seen a significant rise in reported cases of online fraud, ransomware attacks targeting local businesses, and the misuse of social media for harassment and the spread of misinformation. Dr. Smith's background suggests Lancashire Police is proactively preparing to meet these threats head-on.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Smith to Lancashire Police," stated Chief Constable Chris Johnson in a press release. "Her proven leadership in digital innovation is exactly what we need as we strive to protect our communities in this ever-changing world. She understands the importance of leveraging technology not only to combat crime but also to improve our internal efficiency and enhance public trust."

Dr. Smith's remit will encompass Crime and Operations, a broad portfolio covering everything from reactive policing to proactive crime prevention strategies. However, sources within the force indicate a strong emphasis will be placed on establishing a more robust digital forensics capability, expanding cybercrime units, and developing partnerships with tech companies and academic institutions. This collaborative approach is expected to facilitate the sharing of intelligence, access to cutting-edge technologies, and the recruitment of skilled personnel.

The focus on digital innovation extends beyond simply catching criminals online. Lancashire Police is also exploring the potential of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to analyze crime data, predict potential hotspots, and optimize resource allocation. Body-worn cameras are already in use, and the force is evaluating the deployment of drone technology for surveillance and search and rescue operations. Dr. Smith's expertise will be crucial in ensuring these technologies are implemented ethically and effectively, respecting privacy and civil liberties.

Furthermore, the appointment comes at a time when public awareness of online safety is at an all-time high. Lancashire Police is committed to educating residents about the risks of cybercrime and providing resources to help them protect themselves. Dr. Smith is expected to champion these efforts, potentially leading public awareness campaigns and working with schools and community groups to promote digital literacy.

The challenges are significant. Budget constraints, coupled with the rapid pace of technological change, require careful planning and investment. The force must also navigate the legal and ethical complexities surrounding data collection, surveillance, and the use of AI. However, the appointment of Dr. Smith signals a clear intent to prioritize digital transformation and position Lancashire Police as a leader in modern law enforcement. The coming months will be critical in observing how her vision translates into tangible improvements in crime prevention, investigation, and public safety within Lancashire.