Overview

• Rob Carden took up the post as chief constable on Monday, succeeding Serena Kennedy.
• He set out a strategy to expand tools such as facial recognition, AI and digital redaction to free officers for frontline patrols.
• He targeted about £31 million in savings over four to five years and said visible policing would not be reduced, with plans to strengthen neighbourhood teams.
• He stressed the need for high‑quality shared data and quicker, more transparent public information to keep pace with social media.
• He said public reassurance on facial recognition is vital following concerns about its deployment by the Metropolitan Police at Notting Hill Carnival.