Husband and wife duo retire after 61 years' service

A crime-fighting husband and wife duo are retiring following a combined 61 years’ service with Durham Constabulary. 

Chief Superintendent Dave Coxon and Detective Constable Vicky Coxon are handing in their warrant cards today and starting a new chapter together.

Having both started their careers in the early 90s, Dave and Vicky found themselves working at numerous different stations across the county, including Peterlee, Durham City, Chester-Le-Street, Spennymoor, Seaham, Headquarters, and Bishop Auckland.

The pair met on Vicky’s first day following her initial training in September 1995.

Vicky said: “Joining the police was the best decision I’ve ever made. Beginning working here at 20 was a huge learning curve, but it’s got to have been the most rewarding 30-year career I could have ever hoped for – I honestly wouldn’t change a thing! 

“It’s been an honour to serve in Durham having lived here my entire life. Meeting Dave has clearly been a bonus too! I’ll miss the excitement that policing brings but I’ll always have some fantastic memories to look back on.”

After serving as a police officer for over 20 years, Vicky decided she would delve into the detective arena. Once she passed her exams, Vicky began working in CID, protecting vulnerable people, and jailing some of the county’s most dangerous and prolific criminals.

Vicky started working at police HQ in 2024 and has been part of the force’s Crime Desk for the last year of her career.

Meanwhile, Dave took to the roads and spent five years in the Roads Policing Unit and Armed Protection Team. He was promoted to sergeant in 2006 and then inspector in 2012 where he spent eight years in neighbourhood policing at Peterlee, Durham, and Chester-Le Street.

Not stopping his progression there, Dave was promoted to response Chief Inspector in 2020. Just five years later, he flew up the ranks becoming Chief Superintendent, head of our People Command and recently enjoyed a period with the executive team, as Temporary Assistant Chief Constable for Durham Constabulary.

Dave said: “I couldn’t have chosen a better career, or a better force to work in. I’ve genuinely loved my time with Durham which made the decision to retire a difficult one.

“I’ve worked with loads of committed people over the years and know that they will continue to give their all to keep people safe. That was important to me when I joined and it’s something that I see every day, I’ll miss being involved and being part of the team.

“Leaving at the same time as Vicky though is something I’m really looking forward to as we start the next chapter together.”       

Thank you for your impressive service, Mr and Mrs Coxon, we wish you the best of luck in your retirement!