The Vice-Chair of the National Police Autism Association has been recognised for his outstanding career in digital policing in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours list.
Former Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary Chief Inspector Nick Elton has received a King’s Policing Medal after 29 years of distinguished public service across police forces in Cleveland, Surrey, Wiltshire and Hampshire, as well as the College of Policing.
Nick joined Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary in 2017 at the rank of Chief Inspector, leading the force’s Digital Intelligence and Investigations team in finding new ways officers could capitalise on new technologies.
One of the most significant legacies of his career was while serving with the College of Policing where he delivered the Digital Media Investigator role across the 48 UK police forces as well as the National Crime Agency.
In Hampshire, Nick also created and hosted the Force’s Digital Discovery Workshop events. Attended by hundreds of policing professionals, these innovative events featured speakers from international intelligence services and leading industry figures to share tactical advice on digital investigations and raise awareness of cyber enabled crime.
His influence in this area extends beyond policing into wider industry and academia where his knowledge and insight is highly regarded and sought after. He is a Visiting Professor at Birmingham City University, a Chartered Security Professional, a Chartered Manager and a Fellow of the British Computer Society, the Institute of Directors, the Security Institute and the Chartered Management Institute.
As Vice-Chair of the NPAA, Nick is a strong and public ambassador for neurodiversity in policing. He was also a Police Federation representative between 2010 and 2017.
Recently retired, Nick has worked tirelessly to keep policing ahead of how technology is being used by criminals. His work in shaping and driving the UK policing response to cyber and digital crime has been pivotal and transformed the national landscape.
Reacting to this honour, Nick said: “I would like to express my deepest gratitude and immense honour upon being nominated for a King’s Policing Medal. Words cannot adequately convey the depth of my appreciation for this recognition, it is better than winning the lottery!
“This is a momentous occasion in my life, as it signifies the acknowledgment of my efforts and contributions not only to policing locally within Hampshire and Thames Valley but also nationally. But this is really a collective award, it is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of those who I have worked and served with in the pursuit of common organisational goals. Knowing that our collective endeavours have been recognised. This award is a testament to the effort of those who have stood by me.
“I am incredibly honoured to have served as Vice-Chair of the National Police Autism Association. The remarkable growth of the NPAA, now the fourth largest Police Staff Association in England, is a testament to the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of our Chair, John, our exceptional current and former Executive Team, and our invaluable coordinators and members across the country. Day by day, they selflessly work to support and uplift their fellow staff members who face daily challenges. In the face of adversity, our coordinators embrace each challenge as an opportunity for personal and collective growth, fostering greatness within our Association and beyond. Our journey towards success is marked by the resilience and determination we have all shown in overcoming obstacles. Together, we have built a thriving community that empowers and inspires. The impact we have made is a testament to the power of our collective unity and unwavering commitment.
“The support and encouragement that I have received whilst with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. I am truly grateful for the opportunities that have presented and for believing in my abilities.
“I would also like to express my appreciation to the distinguished individuals who were involved in the selection process. Their discerning judgment and commitment to recognising outstanding achievements have made this honour all the more meaningful.
“I have served in a number of Forces across my career but my time in Hampshire was definitely the most enjoyable. If anyone is thinking of a career in policing I couldn’t recommend Hampshire enough as it is such a positive place to work, particularly for neurodivergent people.”
Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “I am delighted that Nick has been honoured in this way for his expertise and leadership in digital policing and cyber security.
“His commitment and passion has meant policing both locally and nationally has a far better understanding of the threats posed by cyber criminals, and we know from our communities that his work with businesses has had a direct impact on raising awareness and crucially preventing victims of these sorts of crimes.
“On behalf of the whole Force I would like to congratulate Nick on his well-deserved KPM.” ∎
This article was originally published on the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website – it is reproduced and updated here with kind permission of Nick Elton
