THE DEPUTY Chief Constable of West Midlands Police, who lives near Droitwich, has received an OBE in The Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.
DCC Louisa Rolfe received the royal seal of approval by being recognised for her dedication to policing and tackling domestic abuse
Louisa started her policing career as a PC with Avon and Somerset Police before becoming their first female head of CID.
More than 25 years on, she is now one of the most senior female officers in the country.
During her time in the South West, her achievements included leading on the development of a Regional Organised Crime Unit, and the development of the Counter Terrorism Intelligence Unit for the region.
The mum-of-two joined West Midlands Police as DCC in early 2016 and has helped to oversee the force’s WMP2020 change programme where improved technology has been introduced such as body worn cameras and smartphones so officers can work on the move.
She is also the current National Police Chiefs Council lead for domestic abuse.
In this role she the UK police response to HMIC’s report Everyone’s Business. That focused on improving the response to domestic abuse survivors – urging forces to prioritise domestic abuse and securing substantial improvements across the service.
She will receive her medal at Buckingham Palace in 2019.
The 49-year-old said: “It has come as a huge shock but I am extremely honoured and proud at the same time.
“I started my policing journey with the aim of helping others and that has remained the same whatever the role. I have worked with and learnt from some fantastic people over the years and I would like to thank them for their support.
“This is a special moment for me but I hope to enjoy many more years in policing and helping others, particularly when they’re at their most vulnerable.”
