Statement – Contempt of court sanction
20 November 2025
Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone will commission a systematic independent review of the circumstances that resulted in the Chief Constable being found in contempt of court.
Danielle will ask for the review to be completed by the end of the year, so that any recommendations can be shared with the Chief Constable and action taken as quickly as possible.
Danielle said that she was deeply dismayed by the matters discussed at the court hearing today (November 20) and apologised to the complainant, Miss Buzzard-Quashie.
“I have listened to the court proceedings today, which highlighted clear organisational failings.
“I am deeply dismayed and can only apologise to Miss Buzzard-Quashie.
“The Chief Constable has properly taken corporate responsibility – I will hold him to account for putting the failings right.
“I have asked for an independent review of the circumstances that brought us here. The review will be overseen by my deputy, Marianne Kimani and I will ask to see that report by the end of the year.
“Transparency and accountability are fundamental to police legitimacy. We must understand what went so badly wrong in this case.”
Danielle will attend an extraordinary meeting called by the Police, Fire and Crime Panel next week (Thursday 27 November) when she will answer questions raised by Panel members.
