Jersey Police won't be appointing a permanent Deputy Chief Officer until at least next autumn.
Instead, superintendents will each take the role of 'Designated Deputy' on a six-month rotation.
The first is James Wileman, who's been Acting Deputy since Chief Robin Smith was appointed in January. He'll return to his previous role of Superintendent in October when someone else will take on the temporary position.
It's been agreed between the Chief of Police, the Jersey Police Authority and the Home Affairs Minister, Constable Len Norman.
The force says this will help them to assess the financial position in light of the coronavirus pandemic and make sure front-line constable and sergeant numbers are prioritised.
The next temporary deputy will be appointed on 5 October 2020 and the scheme will be in place for one year.
"I strongly believe there is sufficient resilience within our dedicated and experienced senior leadership team without appointing a Deputy Chief Officer at this time. James Wileman will be the first ‘Designated Duty’, returning to his previous role of Superintendent in October. I would like to take the opportunity to thank James personally for all his had work as Acting Deputy Chief Officer." - Robin Smith, Chief of Police.
The Chief will review how it went in October 2021 and report to the Jersey Police Authority and Home Affairs Minister.