Deputy steps up to top job
SHANE Patton will be Victoria’s new Chief Commissioner of police, with the State Government yesterday announcing he would take over from Graham Ashton.
Mr Patton, who has been Deputy Commissioner since 2015, steps into the role with more than 40 years’ experience.
He was praised by Premier Daniel Andrews and members within the force as a straight talker with a skill for getting difficult tasks done and attention to detail.
Mr Patton said he would outline his full vision for the force once he took up the role at the end of this month.
Proactive policing that aims to prevent crime before it occurs and driving down the road toll will be two of his key aims.
“Importantly, as we see right across the world as well, it’s about engaging with the community and that is pivotal,” Mr Patton said. “Without their consent, without their trust we can’t do our job.”
Mr Patton, who rang his mother to break the news five minutes before the announcement, said he followed his brother into Victoria Police so he could live in the city.
“It very quickly became apparent to me that it was my calling,” he said.
“It is truly a noble profession and when you start to make a difference … it very quickly grows on you.”
Emergency Services Commissioner Andrew Crisp was, at one stage, thought to be neck-and-neck with Mr Patton for the top job.
But it’s understood the Government may have decided it needed Mr Crisp where he was after challenging summer bushfires and the promise of more to come.
Mr Patton’s broad experience and style have won him widespread support since he became Deputy Commissioner.
“He’s always been a real straight-shooter,” one former colleague said. “It’ll be a very popular selection.”
Three of the past four chiefs have come from outside Victoria, although Mr Ashton had served in the state previously.
One seasoned source said the local factor was an advantage for Mr Patton, as was his personal style.
“He’s not flashy by any means. He’s a quiet achiever.”
Mr Andrews said Mr Patton was “a consummate professional”.