Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall

Jo joined Avon and Somerset Police in February 2023 as Assistant Chief Constable (ACC), following distinguished stints working for both South Wales and Devon and Cornwall police forces. Much of her career has been spent in criminal investigations (CID).

After initially joining South Wales Police as police staff, Jo became a Police Constable in 1999, patrolling Barry and the Vale of Glamorgan. She moved to Devon and Cornwall Police two years later, and very quickly chose the Detective pathway for her career.

She has worked across investigations at every rank, leading teams in CID, sexual offences and domestic abuse, intelligence, public protection and major crime investigation as a Senior Investigating Officer (SIO). During the 2021 G7 summit in Cornwall, she was the public face of the policing operation, leading the Communications and Briefing teams.

In addition to her role as Assistant Chief Constable, Jo leads investigations of serious and organised crime, with overall responsibility for the Investigations and Operational Support Directorates.

She is also the force lead for violence against women and girls (VAWG) and plays an active role in community policing as Chair of the Avon and Somerset Local Resilience Forum – a multi-agency partnership which plans and prepares for emergencies. 

Jo also has regional responsibilities as the South West regional lead for the portfolios of Disaster Victim Recovery and Casualty Bureau, and Counter Terror Specialist Firearms Officers.

Jo says:

“I am a third-generation police officer and I always wanted to join the police. I am really proud of the job we do and wouldn’t choose another career.

“Investigation, and bringing some of the most serious offenders to justice, has always been a particular passion of mine and, prior to joining Avon and Somerset Police, I was proud to lead as a Force Senior Investigating Officer.

“Tackling the significant issue of VAWG is another key priority, both for myself and the force as a whole.

“I am committed to creating an environment, both within policing and in our communities, for women and girls to pursue their lives free of fear and harassment.”