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Desmond O’Brien CBE QPM

 

It was sad news indeed when we heard today of the death of former Chief Constable, Desmond O’Brien.  Mr O’Brien was Chief Constable of the British Transport Police from 1989-1997 having previously served in Kent County Constabulary as Deputy Chief Constable and in senior ranks in Greater Manchester Police, the Police Staff College and in the RUC.

Mr O’Brien was a successful and highly respected Chief Constable.  In many ways a traditionalist, he was also a moderniser, at a time when the force needed modernisation.  His reforms stood the test of time.  He was a leader with a clear sense of right and wrong.  He prepared the force for the coming of rail privatisation.  This was a time of great uncertainty and he tirelessly stood up for BTP in discussions with government and other forces.  Most of all we remember him as the Chief who led the force through a prolonged and intense terrorist campaign against the railway network.  Many of the innovations in counter terrorism for the railway that were introduced at his direction remain in place and are of continuing relevance.  His contribution is an important part of our history.

No all Chief Constables make an impact.  Not all leave a positive legacy.  Mr O'Brien was one that did.  He was a real leader.  Without him the history of specialist railway policing may have ended 20 years ago.  Those connected with the force and those that travel by rail have a lot to thank him for.  RIP.

The BTPHG will publish a full obituary in their next newsletter. 

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