[ad_1]
The chief constable of West Midlands Police (WMP) is to retire following a row over the force’s decision to ban Israeli football fans from a match in Birmingham for safety reasons.
Craig Guildford will step down with immediate effect, West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said on Friday.
“In doing so, he has acted with honour and in the best interests of West Midlands Police and our region. I welcome his decision,” Mr Foster said.
Mr Guildford said after his retirement was announced that the “political and media frenzy” around his position had become “detrimental” to the force.
His decision comes after Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she did not have confidence in the police chief, following his force’s controversial ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from a Europa League tie against Aston Villa at Villa Park in November.
On Wednesday, Ms Mahmood said: “We have witnessed a failure of leadership that has harmed the reputation of and eroded public confidence in West Midlands police, and policing more broadly.”
Maccabi Tel-Aviv’s Sagiv Jehezkel (left) and Aston Villa’s Ian Maatsen during the match in November. Pic: PA
Protesters before the match. Pic: PA
After it was announced that Mr Guildford would retire, the home secretary welcomed the move and said he had “done the right thing”.
“I would like to acknowledge his years of service. And I pay tribute to the work of the officers in West Midlands Police, who keep their community safe every day,” Ms Mahmood said.
“Today marks a crucial first step to rebuilding trust and confidence in the force amongst all the communities they serve.”
Craig Guildford giving evidence to the Home…
[ad_2]
