Rob Bastable (54) joined the force in 2013, having previously served for 30 years with the City of London Police. He was appointed as head of the States police in July 2017 taking over from Mike Bowron.
Mr Bastable, who has been described by the force as a ‘devout family man’, had previously been the deputy chief officer as well as the superintendent head of uniformed operations before taking on the chief officer role.
Tributes have been pouring in on social media for Mr Bastable, with a number of colleagues praising the impact he had on their careers. One described him as a ‘truly genuine and awesome boss’.
Yesterday, the flags outside police headquarters were flown at half-mast.
In a statement, the police said: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our chief officer Rob Bastable. Rob passed away on Saturday 21 July surrounded by his immediate family following a battle with cancer that he fought bravely with amazing positivity and dignity.
‘Rob was a much-loved and respected leader and police officer who will be sorely missed by everyone that knew him or had the pleasure to work with him.
‘The thoughts and prayers of all States of Jersey police colleagues are with his family at this very difficult time.’
During his time in London Mr Bastable was involved in a number of high profile operations, including the 7/7 terror attacks.
Acting chief officer Julian Blazeby said: ‘Rob Bastable was first and foremost very much a family man and committed Christian who brought so much to the police service through his leadership, commitment and great sense of humour.
‘Rob will be missed by his colleagues and partners from the blue light services and across the States of Jersey whom he worked closely with and formed strong relationships. All of the States of Jersey’s thoughts reach out to Rob’s family, friends and colleagues.’
Mr Bastable is survived by his parents, wife Frances and two sons – one of whom joined the Metropolitan police earlier this year.
On Twitter, the Guernsey police force said: ‘We were incredibly sad to hear of Rob’s passing. He was a gentleman and all at Guernsey Police and Guernsey Border Agency are thinking of his loved ones at this difficult time.’
Home Affairs Minister Len Norman said: ‘Rob was greatly respected by all his colleagues in the police and across Home Affairs. He was a thoroughly decent man, a true gentleman with a strong work ethic and excellent sense of humour. He had a caring and kind manner, and was a pleasure to work with. Jersey has lost a highly skilled and professional public servant.’
