Cheryl Scanlon announces retirement from Queensland Police

Cheryl Scanlon, Deputy Commissioner of the Queensland Police Service, has announced her intention to retire at the end of 2026. Her career in the service spans nearly 40 years, having joined in 1986 at the age of 19.

Throughout her tenure, Scanlon has held several high-profile roles, including detective superintendent in charge of child safety and sexual crimes, and chief superintendent for the Crime and Corruption Commission. She was appointed assistant commissioner in 2020 and assumed the role of deputy commissioner in January 2024. Her work has involved driving reforms in areas such as child protection, sexual violence, youth crime, ethical standards, and counter-terrorism.

Acting Commissioner Brett Pointing described Scanlon as an “exceptional and collaborative leader” who has dedicated her career to protecting the community and pursuing justice for vulnerable victims. Scanlon noted that criminal investigation has remained her lifelong passion.