Last updated on 1 March 2026
Acting Sergeant Oli Shearer was warmly thanked for his service at the South of the Borough Police Ward Panel meeting on 18th February 2026, where residents and colleagues gathered to wish him well. Oli has led our Safer Neighbourhood Team for the past three and a half years, during which he has been a visible and committed presence across the area.
During his time in post, Oli played a key role in tackling anti-social behaviour, particularly around Chessington Golf Club and Tolworth Court Farm Fields. His steady leadership has been especially valued during a period marked by staff shortages and high levels of abstraction, when officers were frequently redeployed to support events elsewhere in London.
At the meeting, Andrew MacKinlay, Malden Rushett resident and former Kingston councillor, presented Oli with a leaving gift on behalf of the community. Knowing Oli’s fondness for the occasional sip of rum when off duty, residents chose a bottle of Rumbullion and an engraved glass as a token of appreciation.
In his remarks, Andrew highlighted the respect Oli has earned from both residents and his team, noting the professionalism and good humour with which he has navigated challenging circumstances. Oli responded by saying he was genuinely overwhelmed by the kind messages he has received and spoke of how proud he has been to serve the south of the borough. He also expressed heartfelt thanks to the colleagues he has had the privilege to work alongside.
As part of a Met-wide cost saving restructure, Acting Sergeants are being returned to the rank of Police Constable. Oli has chosen to continue his service in New Malden, and we wish him every success in the next chapter of his policing career.
New Safer Neighbourhood Team Members
Oli’s role has now been taken on by Sergeant Benjamin Storey, who joined the team on 24th February 2026. The team has also welcomed a new Police Constable, PC Robert Coakley, previously an Acting Sergeant in Tolworth.
We look forward to working with them both as they continue to support and protect our community.
Your Safer Neighbourhoods Team
Your Safer Neighbourhoods Team is a group of Met police officers dedicated to serving your community. The Safer Neighbourhoods Team…