Police and Crime Panel unanimously back PCC’s proposed new Deputy.

Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen’s proposals to appoint Graham Hall as her new Deputy have been unanimously backed by the Police and Crime Panel.

The County Durham and Darlington PCC presented her plans to panel members at a Confirmation Hearing on 1 July 2024.

In doing so, the PCC said Mr Hall would provide vital support to her work to make County Durham and Darlington safer, stronger and more resilient to drug and alcohol related crime and anti-social behaviour and would help her to meet her growing responsibilities locally, regionally and nationally to improve policing.

In a written response issued yesterday, the Police and Crime Panel said members had since made the unanimous decision to recommend approval of Mr Hall’s appointment and looked forward to working with him in his new role as Deputy PCC.

The Panel added that it accepted Mr Hall’s previous experience as a Police Officer and working in community safety would be of benefit to the PCC’s office, the Panel and to County Durham and Darlington.  

Mr Hall is a retired Chief Superintendent with vast experience of policing and community issues.

As the Head of Community Safety for Darlington Borough Council, he is known across the partnership landscape locally and is the current chair of Darlington Community Safety Partnership. In 2022, Mr Hall was recognised by the Darlington Borough Council Stronger Communities Awards for his contribution to public safety in Darlington.  

Experienced in policing governance and local government arrangements, Mr Hall has a deep understanding of national, regional and local community groups with the ability to engage at all levels.  

Commissioner Allen said: “I am delighted the Police and Crime Panel unanimously approved my decision and I look forward to welcoming Mr Hall to the OPCC team.

“Graham’s vast experience of policing and community safety will prove an invaluable support to me, and he will provide an insight that is second to none as we work to make County Durham and Darlington safer for everyone.

“As our responsibilities as PCCs grow and evolve, Mr Hall’s support will provide additional expertise and capacity to reach and engage with our residents and give a voice to our communities on the issues that are important to them and impact their safety.”

Mr Hall will replace former Deputy PCC Nigel Bryson OBE who stepped down from his part-time role prior to the election.

Mr Hall’s position will be on a full-time basis until the conclusion of the PCC’s current term of office in May 2028.

‍