WEST Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Bob Jones has died suddenly.

The 59-year-old died in his sleep at his Wolverhampton home this morning (Tuesday).

Mr Jones was elected the first West Midlands PCC in November 2012, after a long and distinguished career in public service.

His wife, Sarah, said: “Bob was a warm and wonderful man. Nothing was more important to Bob than his family which he loved with a passion. He was a very special man who will be terribly missed by his loved ones and I’m sure by the many people whose lives he touched in public service.”

Mr Jones' deputy police and crime commissioner, Yvonne Mosquito, added: “This is a huge loss to the West Midlands and to policing.

“Bob was a dear friend and a deeply committed public servant.

"All our thoughts are with Bob’s wife Sarah and his family at this sad time.”

James Morris, Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP and chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Mental Health, paid tribute to Mr Jones.


“Despite our many political disagreements, I will always remember the important work that Bob did in making sure that our local police force takes mental health seriously – whether amongst victims, offenders or police officers and staff.


“He was genuinely committed to this work and will be missed by the many people who have benefited from the changes he helped to implement.


“My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family and hope that they can take some comfort from his achievements and the many lives he touched.”


Mr Jones was given the CBE for "services to policing" in 2010