Dame Lynne Owens Calls Time on Stellar Police Career After 35 Years
Iconic Deputy Met Chief to Retire in 2025
Dame Lynne Owens, the Metropolitan Police’s Deputy Commissioner and one of Britain’s most respected officers, has announced she will retire in late May 2025. Her 35-year policing career began humbly in 1989 as a constable in Catford, London, but she quickly soared through the ranks, breaking glass ceilings along the way.
She made history as Surrey Police’s first female Chief Constable and later headed the National Crime Agency (NCA), cementing her status as a trailblazer and leader in UK law enforcement.
From Constable to Criminal Justice Powerhouse
- Began police service in Catford in 1989.
- One of Britain’s youngest Deputy Chief Constables by 2008.
- Awarded Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) the same year.
- Surrey’s first female Chief Constable in 2012.
- Appointed Director General of the NCA by Theresa May in 2015.
Despite retiring for health reasons in 2021, Dame Lynne made a dramatic comeback in 2022 as Met Deputy Commissioner, partnering with Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley to steer the force through turbulent times.
Turning the Tide at the Met
Dame Lynne played a crucial role in restoring public trust in the Metropolitan Police. Her leadership helped the Met shake off ‘special measures’ status, as confirmed by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in January 2025.
“It has been an honour and privilege to return to the Met to support Sir Mark in making the changes that were needed, and which crucially were wanted by our officers and staff. I am proud of the progress we have made,” Dame Lynne said. “Of course, there remains much more to do, and I know my successor will build on what we have achieved.”
Tributes Pour In from Sir Mark Rowley
Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley heaped praise on Dame Lynne’s dedication and resilience, especially her return to frontline policing shortly after battling cancer.
“Dame Lynne Owens is one of the most talented and dedicated police officers of her generation. Her contribution to policing is astonishing and cannot be underestimated. London has a far better police service because of her,” Sir Mark said.
Honours and Legacy
- Queen’s Police Medal (QPM), 2008
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), 2015
- Dame Commander of the Order of the Bath (DCB), 2021
As Dame Lynne prepares to step down, eyes turn to the upcoming appointment of her successor. The process will involve talks between Sir Mark Rowley, the Home Secretary, and the Mayor of London.
Dame Lynne Owens leaves behind a legacy of breaking barriers, commanding national crime fighting efforts, and driving reform to renew faith in British policing.
