A police chief who oversaw the filming of walkers with drones has resigned.
Derbyshire Police Chief Constable Peter Goodman was leading the force when it flew drones over people walking in the Peak District.
They also dyed a normally bright blue lagoon black in order to deter people from gathering there during the coronavirus lockdown.
Mr Goodman has now resigned, although the force has stressed that there is no link between the controversies and his departure, Birmingham Mail reported.
Sign up to get the Mirror’s daily coronavirus briefing email at mirror.co.uk/email
The former Supreme Court Justice Jonathan Sumption, QC, likened the force’s approach to the restrictions on public movement to “a police state”.
He also said filming walkers with drones was “disgraceful” and “shamed our policing traditions”.
Mr Goodman defend his officers' actions at the time, claiming the coronavirus laws were 'unclear'.
He also denied that the drones were used to shame walkers.
He is to retire from the force after 13 years in the top job.
In a statement, he said: “It has been my privilege and pleasure to lead Derbyshire Constabulary and I am very proud to have been part of such a hardworking and dedicated organisation.
“I have seen many changes during my career, in particular the change in crime trends.
“Technology now plays a large part in crime and I have been lucky enough to be involved in the work that is happening nationally to tackle this as the national lead for cyber crime and serious and organised crime.
“I am extremely proud of the work that officers and staff do day-in-day-out, most of it going unsung.
“The dedication to keeping the communities of Derbyshire safe is second to none by all members of the force and I know that this will continue.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa praised the outgoing police chief.
He said: “Peter has made a significant contribution to policing and the public over the course of his 32-year career and during the last three years we have enjoyed a good working relationship serving the people of Derbyshire.
“It has been my privilege to work with such a professional and inspirational chief constable in order to protect the vulnerable in our communities, prevent crime and preserve Derbyshire’s reputation as a safe place to live, work or visit.
“I wish him good luck, health and every happiness for the future.”
