Victoria Police names Shane Patton, Wendy Steendam as deputy commissioners
A TERRORISM expert and a crime fighter with information technology prowess are Victoria Police’s two new deputy commissioners.
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A TERRORISM expert and a crime fighter with information technology prowess are Victoria Police’s two new deputy commissioners.
Shane Patton and Wendy Steendam were announced as the new deputies by Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton this morning and will start their new jobs on September 7.
Mr Patton, who was considered a frontrunner for the chief commissioner role earlier this year, has been an acting deputy since December.
His 35 years in the force has ranged from complex criminal investigations, prosecutions and public transport safety.
Later in his career he has been involved in counterterrorism.
Ms Steendam, who has 30 years policing experience, also has a background in fighting serious crime threats, operational policing and policy.
Part of her new role will be implementing policing strategies in line with the controversial Blue Paper former chief commissioner Ken Lay championed.
Deputy Commissioner Lucinda Nolan will continue to manage the regional operations portfolio.
Mr Ashton said it had been a significant year of change in their senior leadership ranks following the retirement of Mr Lay and he was delighted to have a confident team around him.
“Wendy and Shane bring a wealth of policing expertise and corporate knowledge to the executive command team,’’ he said.
“I welcome them and thank acting Deputy Commissioner Jack Blayney who has overseen the strategy portfolio since January, 2015.
“Victoria Police has many challenges and competing priorities, both now and in the years ahead, including counter terrorism, family violence, organised crime and achieving the vision outlined in the Blue Paper.’’
“I’m confident the organisation is in good hands to rise to these challenges and continue to serve and protect the Victorian community.’’