Craig Guildford, the embattled former chief constable of West Midlands Police, has sparked further outrage with a £57,800 "loss of office" payment after his contentious exit from the force. The payout follows widespread criticism surrounding his decision to bar Israeli football fans from attending a high-profile match in November 2025.
The figures were disclosed in the police force's latest financial accounts, which reveal that Guildford received a total remuneration package of £344,500 for the 2025/2026 financial year. This included his annual salary of £220,800, as well as a pension contribution of £65,900.
Guildford's resignation in January was met with public statements from Downing Street and the Home Secretary expressing a loss of confidence in his leadership. The former chief had faced intense scrutiny after apologising for providing incorrect evidence to Members of Parliament regarding the use of artificial intelligence in a report that led to the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters.
Upon announcing his retirement, Guildford cited a "political and media frenzy" as the reason for his decision. However, West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster welcomed the move, stating it would avoid a potentially complex and costly process. In contrast, the substantial payout has drawn criticism from prominent figures, with Lord Austin of Dudley describing it as an "appalling use of taxpayers' money."
The controversy surrounding Guildford's severance package has raised questions about public sector severance packages, particularly in cases where high-profile departures are involved.