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Tuesday, 3 July, 2001, 03:31 GMT 04:31 UK
Police chief leaves force immediately
Paul Whitehouse
Paul Whitehouse planned to remain until 25 September
The chief constable of Sussex Police is leaving the force with immediate effect following criticism over his handling of a bungled raid in which an unarmed man was shot dead.

Paul Whitehouse, who resigned a day after the Home Secretary, David Blunkett, ordered his local police authority to consider sacking him, had planned to remain in charge until 25 September - the date of his formal retirement.

But on Monday he said: "I have agreed with the police authority that, while I shall remain as chief constable, I shall cease my operational role with immediate effect.

"I am sorry I shall not be able to say goodbye to my colleagues properly."

James Ashley
James Ashley: Shot at close range
The force was severely criticised by two independent inquiries for the operation which saw suspected drugs dealer James Ashley, 39, shot by police marksman Chris Sherwood at his flat in St Leonards in January 1998.

Sussex Police Authority Chairman, Margaret Johnson, said Deputy Chief Constable Maria Wallis would take over command of the force and a new chief constable would be appointed "as soon as is reasonably practicable".

Ms Johnson said: "We have full confidence in Maria Wallis.

"The decision announced today is a proper reflection of the views held by all members of the authority.

"We wish Mr Whitehouse well in his retirement.


We shall remain focused on crime priorities and taking forward improvements in the force's performance that we are now beginning to see

Deputy Chief Constable Maria Wallis
Mrs Wallis said: "This has been a difficult time for the force.

"But the task for everyone within Sussex police is to stay focused so that we continue to improve and work together in partnership with the community."

"The important message to the workforce and the people of Sussex is that we shall remain focused on crime priorities and taking forward improvements in the force's performance that we are now beginning to see.

"The early signs are encouraging.

"Most of the figures are pointing in the right direction."

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