A POLICE commander has taken over the reins of Maldon and Chelmsford, returning to where he began his career as a constable.

Chief Inspector Gerry Parker began his policing career 18 years ago, and has taken over from Ronnie Egan as Essex Police’s District Commander for the area.

In his new role, he has outlined his priorities for Chelmsford and Maldon as protecting and supporting vulnerable people and victims of crime, tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, driving down violent crime, reducing the harm caused by alcohol and drugs, reducing reoffending and promoting road safety.

Chief Insp Parker said: “I’m really excited to be returning to the place where my policing career began as a police constable 18 years ago.

“A lot has changed since then, but what hasn’t changed is that both Chelmsford and Maldon are unique and vibrant places with great communities.

“I look forward to serving the residents and visitors of both areas and to getting out and meeting them to find out what matters most to them.

“We also have the exciting prospect of our new community hub in Chelmsford which will help us build on the existing good collaborative work with partners that has already been done.”

During his time working for the force Chief Insp Parker has carried out roles including working in specialist operations, public order, roads policing and the Operational Support Group.

He most recently headed up the Mobile First programme which has seen the successful roll-out of 2,000 smart phones to all front-line uniformed officers.

Visit www.essex.police.uk/your-area/chelmsford-maldon.