Chief Superintendent John McDermott, North Kent’s Divisional Commander, has been awarded the prestigious Queen’s Police Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in recognition of his outstanding service to policing.
McDermott joined Kent Police in 1988 and has since been involved in tackling some of the most challenging cases in the region. His extensive experience covers areas such as anti-corruption, serious organised crime, covert operations, and counter-terrorism.
Throughout his career, McDermott has played a key role in dismantling organised crime gangs and exposing corrupt officers within the force. His dedication has not only impacted policing locally but has also influenced national policing policies.
In addition to his local and national contributions, McDermott has received international recognition. In 1998, while serving as a Detective Sergeant, he was awarded a United Nations medal for his investigation into the Bosnian war massacre of civilians.
Chief Constable Alan Pughsley QPM praised McDermott’s achievements, stating, “I am absolutely delighted for Chief Superintendent McDermott. He is an exceptional police officer with an incredible record of bringing people, who thought they were above the law, to justice.”
He added, “He has worked at the very top of his profession for over 30 years, leading hundreds of successful prosecutions against dangerous offenders, crime gangs, and corrupt officers. His forensic focus has saved countless vulnerable people from exploitation and cleansed the force of bad apples.”
Chief Constable Pughsley concluded, “He is a role model and a man who always does the right thing. It’s been an honour serving with him.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
