A CHEMISTRY teacher turned police officer has been appointed as Hertsmere’s new chief inspector, after just eight years in the force.

Sue Jameson took the post this month and will be in charge of the district’s emergency response, local crime unit and safer neighbourhood teams.

The 42-year-old takes over from Sian Lockley, who has been seconded on temporary promotion to superintendent as the senior police advisor to the Youth Justice Board.

The new chief inspector has made reducing all crime and anti-social behaviour a priority and wants to see a big improvement in updating victims of crime about ongoing investigations.

She said: “I’m thrilled to have taken on this role.

“I have a great team of conscientious and hard working officers who want to give something back to the community.”

Sue switched from a career in education to join the Hertfordshire Constabulary in 2001, and was promoted to inspector in 2006.

Chief insp Jameson, now responsible for 140 police officers and support staff, added: “Anti-social behaviour remains a problem in certain areas of Hertsmere, which affects residents’ quality of life.

“Neighbourhood policing is key to this and it is not just a police issue – by working in partnership with other agencies and the public, we can reduce crime, anti-social behaviour and the associated fear of crime.”