A TOP cop who managed the UK police response for international aid following the Asian tsunami in 2004 is to become Dorset Police’s second in command.

Debbie Simpson, right, will take over as the Deputy Chief Constable of Dorset when Chris Lee retires in September following a 30-year career.

Mrs Simpson, an Assistant Chief Constable with Devon and Cornwall Police, said she is looking forward to her new role.

She joined Bedfordshire Police in 1984, where she served in a range of ranks and roles before becoming head of the force’s Criminal Investi-gation Department (CID) and also led the work of hostage negotiators and a number of murder investigations.

The transfer to Devon and Cornwall came in 2008.

She said: “I am looking forward to coming to Dorset Police and being part of a high performing team that puts the public first.

“I don’t underestimate the challenges that could be ahead in what is a very uncertain time for the police service as a whole, but I am committed to delivering to the residents of Dorset the best policing service possible.”

Delighted Dorset Chief Constable, Martin Baker, said: “Debbie is a highly skilled and experienced police officer and I very much look forward to her becoming a member of the team in Dorset Police.”