IT might not be a big surprise to those who know him, but police Commander Chris Craner – who has been on secondment in the NSW Police Commissioner’s office – won't be returning to his post in Port Stephens.
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Supt Craner has spent the past four months as NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller’s chief of staff. The Commissioner has asked him to stay on in the role full time - a position which Supt Craner has accepted.
“After huge chats with the family, we decided to take the job,” he said.
“It was a hard decision to leave Port Stephens.”
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said while it was a loss to the community, it was hardly unexpected adding that there were benefits to having him in the Commissioner’s office.
“Having someone like Chris at that level, with his integrity and capability, in that position is a benefit to us all,” Ms Washington said.
“It was really great to have him for the time that we did and his contribution to the community will endure.
“[Acting Superintendent] Wayne Humphrey is doing a great job continuing that same path and ensuring our community is having a say and being heard.
“It speaks to the strength of the leadership under the superintendent, that they are there to support and ensure the continuity of good policing.”
Acting Supt Humphrey said it would be business as usual as far as policing was concerned in Port Stephens and would gladly remain in the job for as long as needed.
“Of course I’m very fond of Port Stephens and if the opportunity presented itself to apply for the position then of course I would apply,” he said.
“I’m happy to work where ever but as far as policing goes no matter what transpires the front-of-house policing won’t change.”