Democratic oversight and political direction of chief police officers in England and Wales: Implications for police legitimacy

This article uses data from recent interviews with chief police officers in England and Wales to assess the connections between how chief police officers are overseen and given political direction and police legitimacy. The research found that governance changes started in 2011, particularly the election of police and crime commissioners, led to chief officers feeling more anxious, and the reforms reduced their operational independence. This may result in chief officers being less able to resist demands to encroach on civil liberties, prioritize the needs of the powerful over the marginalized, or to challenge policies that are likely to be ineffective or which neglect many peoples’ priorities. This endangers effective police leadership and legitimacy. Suggestions are made for consideration by policy makers, practitioners, and researchers to enhance police governance, leadership, and legitimacy. It is contended that the findings have implications for governance, leadership, and legitimacy in other countries and sectors.