'Being a reassuring presence kept me going all these years' - Words of 'Rugeley Sheriff’ set to retire after 50 years

Special Sergeant Kevin Lee, affectionately known as the Rugeley Sheriff, is set to retire from Staffordshire Police in January 2026.

Staffordshire Police said that S/Sgt Lee has been a cornerstone of community policing in Rugeley, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and residents alike. 

He joined the force in September 1975 and enjoyed roles at Stafford, Cannock and Cheslyn Hay, before moving for the last 34 years to Rugeley. 

S/Sgt Lee retired as a police officer in November 2011, but said his passion brought him back to policing the very next working day, in the Special Constabulary and devoting more of his life to local communities on a voluntary basis.

He said, “Community policing has always been at the heart of what I do. Building relationships, understanding local concerns and being a reassuring presence in Rugeley is what kept me going all these years.”

“I have dedicated a life’s work to Staffordshire Police and the communities I have served.  This has never simply been a job to me but a vocation in life, to protect and serve the people of Staffordshire.”

“Hopefully I have achieved this and had a positive impact in the community. I would do it all again, fuelled by the passion and commitment that has defined my journey.”

To mark his upcoming retirement, S/Sgt Lee met with Staffordshire Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Commissioner Ben Adams and Deputy Commissioner David Evans, last month. 

The trio walked through the town, reflecting on his remarkable career and discussing the importance of community policing.

Staffordshire Deputy Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Commissioner, David Evans said: “It was great to patrol the streets of Rugeley with Kevin. 

"It was evident that Kevin is highly respected by residents and shop workers for his commitment to keeping them safe and making Rugeley a better place to live and work.

“Special Constables are vital, they are the eyes and ears on the ground who get to know the root causes of issues communities face. 

"Kevin’s relationship with the community and knowledge of the town is a great example of fantastic community policing. I want to thank him for his service and wish him all the best in his retirement.”

A spokesman for Staffordshire Police said: "Special Constables play a vital role in policing, volunteering their time to support full-time officers and make a real difference in their communities. 

"If Kevin’s story has inspired you, find out more about becoming a special constable or joining as a paid police constable on our website here."