Overview

• Deputy Commissioner Neil Paterson has been informed that his contract will not be renewed, following the recent departure of Chief Commissioner Shane Patton.
• Paterson and Patton had advocated for years for stronger bail laws and judicial accountability, which the government has now signaled it may consider.
• Paterson's farewell letter highlighted a disconnect between police leadership and the government, accusing officials of ignoring critical advice on law enforcement reforms.
• The leadership shake-up comes after a no-confidence vote by 87% of rank-and-file officers, underscoring dissatisfaction within the force.
• Critics, including opposition leaders, have accused the government of using senior police officials as scapegoats for rising crime rates and systemic issues in the justice system.