Deputy Police Chief retires after 43 years in blue

Friday 02 September 2022

Deputy Police Chief Stewart Gull retires today after 43 years in blue, and more than a decade with the Jersey force.

Before becoming number two in the organisation last year, he was Head of Crime Services, his remit including CID, dealing with all major and serious organised crime; drug trafficking and money laundering; intelligence; and cybercrime.

In August 2011, just four weeks after arriving in the island, he led the police response to the murder of three adults and three children in Victoria Crescent.

DCO Stewart Gull said: “Policing was my first job and I have been lucky enough to work in many fulfilling policing roles. 

“Jersey was and has been a most unexpected honour and privilege. Working as part of the leadership team during the last 11 years, working with many good partners, helping it grow and develop has been a real pleasure. 

“My thanks go to everyone at States of Jersey Police and those key partners - thank you for everything each of you do, every day in serving this amazing diverse island community.”

Pictured: DCO Gull led the investigation into the 'Suffolk Strangler', who murdered five women in December 2006.

Chief Officer Robin Smith added: “It’s been an honour to have served with Stewart and to have him as a member of my Senior Leadership Team. 

“I’m incredibly grateful for his support and insight over the last couple of years. 

“His legacy especially in SoJP is there for all to see and he leaves us stronger and better. Over 43 years dedicated public service is a remarkable achievement and is testament to his commitment to public safety.”

DCO Gull came to Jersey from Suffolk Constabulary, where he was Detective Chief Superintendent and Head of Crime Services for both Suffolk and Norfolk. 

During his career, he has served in both uniform and CID in every rank up to and including Chief Superintendent. 

He has a strong crime background as a Senior Investigating Officer, having led a range of Major Crime Homicide enquires, including Operation Sumac, involving the abduction, murder, and deposition of five vulnerable women in Ipswich during a ten-day period in December 2006.

He was recognised in 2009 in the Queen’s birthday honours and awarded with a Queens Police Medal for Services to Policing. 

In 2012 he gave evidence to the Leveson inquiry, an inquiry into the practices and ethics of the media, where he told the inquiry about repeat warnings he had given to the press about responsible reporting.

DCO Gull will be replaced by Scott Hall, who joins the force from Northumbria Police next month.

It is hoped that Mr Hall will be replaced by an officer from within Jersey ranks at the end of his three-year contract.