Police and Crime Commissioner Colin Sutton Commits to 127 Theatre Dates, Dismisses Conflict Claims

Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Colin Sutton is proceeding with a 127-date theatre tour despite criticisms regarding potential conflicts with his public office responsibilities.

Mr Sutton, a former DCI famed for his role in high-profile investigations, began a theatre show in February, with performances scheduled across the UK until June 2025. The tour features discussions of his policing career, including cases such as the Night Stalker and Levi Bellfield.

Elected as PCC in May 2024, Mr Sutton asserts that his commitments to the theatre tour will not impede his capacity to fulfil his duties as Surrey's police commissioner. He stated that his diary is meticulously managed to ensure all performances occur outside of regular working hours or during designated leave periods, emphasising a “very clear” distinction between his public and private engagements. He further highlighted that the PCC role is not defined by standard office hours.

The PCC position, which oversees Surrey Police and has an annual salary of £76,500, requires the incumbent to set policing priorities, manage the force's budget, and hold the Chief Constable to account. Critics question the feasibility of such an extensive external commitment alongside the demanding nature of this public office.