New Chief Inspector to lead local policing in Newcastle and Moorlands

A Chief Inspector with almost 20 years’ experience has been appointed to lead the Newcastle-under-Lyme and Staffordshire Moorlands local policing teams (LPTs).

Chief Inspector Cliff Goodwin started his post last year and since then has been busy tackling the priorities of local people and businesses.

Ch Insp Goodwin has worked at Staffordshire Police for almost 15 years, beginning his career as a special constable before becoming a police constable in 2007.

He was promoted to sergeant in 2014 and began working with the response team in Stafford before moving to the force investigation bureau.

Ch Insp Goodwin moved to Cheshire Constabulary in 2021, initially serving as a response inspector but then going on to lead the violence against women and girls (VAWG) project. 

He returned to Staffordshire Police in 2025 and has developed a wide range of experience, from frontline policing to partnership work, investigative support and custody supervision.

Ch Insp Goodwin said: “I am delighted to take on this role, and we’ve already been busy working to maintain visible, accessible neighbourhood policing, tackling issues that matter most to local residents.

"Living in Staffordshire myself, I am proud to be serving the communities in the area I call home.

"A key priority for me is strengthening engagement across both LPTs, ensuring that local people can easily speak with officers, help shape local priorities and feel informed about the work being done to keep them safe.

"I will champion regular contact with communities, partners, businesses and voluntary groups, ensuring policing is not only visible, but genuinely connected to the people it serves.

"I am focused on ensuring that when the public need us, we attend promptly and effectively and I will work closely with teams across the LPT to build trust, improve problem-solving and ensure local people have clear access to officers when they need them."

To find out more about policing in your area, visit Your area | Staffordshire Police.