Parm Jit Kaur Sandhu is a former Chief Superintendent in Britain's Metropolitan Police Service, known for her groundbreaking career and support for diversity and women's rights. She grew up in a household where English was not the main language and faced various challenges while pursuing a career in law enforcement.
Sandhu started her career at the West Bromwich Building Society and in the civil service before joining the police in 1989. She worked in East London, focusing on hate and domestic violence cases and engaging with youth in the community.
After the 2005 London bombings, she helped improve community relations through the Diamond Initiative. Sandhu advanced in her career, becoming Borough Commander for Richmond in 2016. She made history as the first Asian female Chief Superintendent in the Metropolitan Police Service and received several awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal and the Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. In 2006, she won the Public Sector Award at the Asian Women of Achievements Awards.
In 2018, Sandhu was investigated for gross misconduct related to a royal honour nomination but was cleared a year later. She settled with the Metropolitan Police Service and retired in 2019.
After retirement, Sandhu has continued her public service and advocacy work. She wrote a memoir, "Black and Blue: One Woman's Story of Policing and Prejudice," which shares her experiences and calls for change in policing. She actively advocates for women's rights and often speaks on issues like violence against women and girls.
Sandhu is also committed to education and mentorship, serving as a director at the London Policing College and as an Associate Lecturer at the University of West London. She holds a Master’s Degree in International Criminal Justice Studies and is involved in various organizations promoting equity and inclusion. Sandhu's legacy as a pioneer in British policing continues to inspire many.
