A look back the career of Victoria's 'top cop' Ken Lay

Ken Lay today stepped down as Victoria’s 21st police commissioner. 9news.com.au takes a look back at his career.

Mr Lay addressed the media earlier outlining his decision to retire for personal reasons.

— He joined Victoria Police in 1973 and has served 41 years with the force.

— Today he said one of his proudest achievements had been the changing attitude within the community towards violence against women and children as well, as the way the force had reacted to this in recent years.

— An integral part of Mr Lay’s “Blue Paper” outlines his visions of policing in 2025 – contemporary and future policing – including greater investment in specialists assisting police.

— Mr Lay said that his replacement will face significant challenges such as tackling drug crime, especially the rise of the drug “ice”, and new online dangers.

— Deputy Commissioner, Tim Cartwright, will act as chief commissioner until a new ‘leader’ is appointed – this international recruitment process can take up to 6 months – a lengthy and vital process.

— Mr Lay, 59, is known to keep a keen eye on the history of Victoria Police and has previously spoken about thinking outside the ‘traditional cop’ role.

— He built a solid relationship with the media while serving assistant commissioner for road policing.