Ministry of Defence (MoD) Police has appointed Melanie Dales as its first female chief constable.

Dales has been temporary chief constable since the retirement of Andy Adams in February.

MoD chief operating officer Nina Cope said: “Mel will lead the MoD’s unique, specialist police force responsible for protecting critical national infrastructure including military establishments.”

She joined MoD Police, which has been in existence for 50 years, in February last years as assistant chief constable for nuclear and marine.

She was then promoted to deputy chief constable and then temporary chief constable after Adams’ departure.

Cope added: “Mel Dales is a highly experienced police officer, and I am thrilled to announce her appointment as MoD Police chief constable.

“A significant and

exciting moment

for women…”

“This is a significant and exciting moment for women in defence and policing more widely as Mel becomes the first woman to be appointed chief constable in the history of the MoD Police.

“I look forward to continuing to work with her to lead and develop this crucial organisation of brilliant officers and civil servants.”

Baroness Annabel Goldie, Minister of State in the House of Lords, said: “The MoD Police carries out critical work in protecting defence people and assets, so I am delighted Mel Dales has been appointed chief constable. She brings with her a wealth of experience in UK policing.

Mel Dales said: I am proud to have been given this opportunity to lead the MoD Police because of the unique role we play in protecting the assets and infrastructure of defence, on land and at sea.

“These are challenging times for policing, and I am particularly proud to be leading the MoD Police through a significant period of reform which will create a working environment and culture that is genuinely respectful, and inclusive of everyone.

“This includes our officers and staff, as well as those we protect; I want the MoD Police to be a force that is trusted by the public and defence community.”