New inspector takes over at Melton and Rutland Neighbourhood Policing Area

Congratulations to Inspector Rowan Paterson‑Bell as he takes on the role of Neighbourhood Policing Area (NPA) Commander for Melton and Rutland.

Inspector Paterson‑Bell brings with him more than 22 years of service with Leicestershire Police, alongside a wealth of experience across operational and neighbourhood policing. He is strongly committed to maintaining and strengthening public safety while continuing the positive work already underway across Melton and Rutland’s communities.

His appointment follows the retirement of current NPA Commander, Inspector Darren Richardson, who steps down after 17 years of dedicated service with Leicestershire Police. During his time in post, Inspector Richardson has played a significant role in strengthening neighbourhood policing locally and leaves behind strong foundations for the team to continue building upon.

Inspector Paterson‑Bell on his appointment

Inspector Rowan Paterson‑Bell said: “I’m really pleased to be taking over as the Neighbourhood Policing Area Commander for Melton and Rutland.

“I’ve been a police officer for 22 years, with a varied career largely spent in the north of the county, starting my career at Syston and then moving to Loughborough when the area became Charnwood. I’m a qualified detective and have worked at East Leicester CID and the force Domestic abuse investigation team.

“As a resident of the Borough, I have a real personal stake in rural policing and effective crime prevention. You can expect a strong focus on visibility, engagement, and tackling the issues that matter most to you.

“That includes taking firm action against criminals travelling to our area to deal drugs, working proactively with partners and businesses to reduce shoplifting in our towns, and strengthening our rural policing presence through meaningful engagement and patrols.

“Thank you for your continued support during this change and please keep engaging with your local beat teams and Neighbourhood Link to tell us about the issues you face in your area.

“I’d like to wish Darren all the very best in his well-deserved retirement.”

Inspector Richardson reflects on his career

Inspector Darren Richardson said: “As I come to the end of my policing career this month, I’ve been reflecting on just how fortunate I’ve been to work in so many roles, alongside so many outstanding people. My last day in service will be 15 May, and while I’m genuinely looking forward to retired life, it’s the people, the camaraderie and being part of the policing family that I will miss the most.

“I began my career as a response officer at Syston, later moving to Loughborough, before progressing to sergeant roles in response and neighbourhood policing, including in Rutland, and then deputy commander at Market Harborough. I was privileged to work as a custody inspector - an experience that shaped me hugely - before finishing as the commander for Melton and Rutland. It has been an amazing place to end my career, and I’m genuinely proud to have served these communities.

“I want to thank the incredible team across Melton and Rutland for their support over the past two and a half years. Policing is about far more than what people see on the streets, and I’m grateful to every officer, staff member, volunteer and team behind the scenes who works day in, day out to keep people safe.

“Finally, thank you to everyone I’ve worked with throughout my career, whatever the role, rank or station. It really has been a job like no other. I leave with real pride in what we do, and real confidence in the team that remains.”

Partnership and community impact

The change in leadership will help ensure that neighbourhood policing continues to deliver for residents across Melton and Rutland, maintaining high standards of service, visibility and community engagement. It will also safeguard the strong partnership working with local authorities, building on the collaborative foundations established by Inspector Richardson.

Michelle Howard, Director for Housing and Communities (Deputy Chief Executive) of Melton Borough Council remarked: “Since his arrival in Melton, Inspector Richardson has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to meaningful partnership working. The outcomes achieved for our communities have been impactful and wide‑ranging, with many examples of proactivity and best practice.

“These include direct and preventative action to tackle antisocial behaviour in our town centre; reassuring and supporting rural communities following serious incidents; engaging with local businesses after a series of shop thefts and ensuring the courts understood the impact on our communities; and demonstrating incredible determination in tackling drug dealing and county lines, with multiple successes that have helped safeguard our communities.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Inspector Richardson. On behalf of Melton Borough Council, I would like to thank him for his service and wish him a happy and fulfilling retirement. He will certainly be missed. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Leicestershire Police as we welcome Inspector Paterson‑Bell, who has already demonstrated a commitment to collaborative working for the benefit of our communities.”

Christine Wise, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: “Inspector Richardson has made an immeasurable contribution to local policing in Melton and Rutland. His leadership and reassuring presence as Commander of our Neighbourhood Policing Area have helped to make our communities safer. His working relationship with local authorities, partners and community groups on both sides of the border have also strengthened our local networks and will have a lasting impact well beyond his retirement. On behalf of everyone at Rutland County Council, I would like to thank him wholeheartedly for his many years of service.”

Leicestershire Police welcomes Inspector Rowan Paterson‑Bell into his new role and would like to thank Inspector Darren Richardson for his dedication and service, wishing him all the very best in his retirement.