Second gross misconduct notice for chief constable

Gloucestershire Police's suspended chief constable has been removed from his role at the National Police Chiefs' Council after being served a second gross misconduct notice.

Rod Hansen was first suspended in October over allegations of gross misconduct, but was redeployed to the National Police Chiefs' Council, whilst under investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct [IOPC].

Now Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson has removed him from that new role after a second set of allegations.

Mr Nelson said that "having considered the seriousness of the allegations" he had taken the decision to suspend Mr Hansen pending the outcome of the investigation.

The new allegations relate to Mr Hansen's involvement in a recruitment process, while the original allegations were around the chief constable's handling of an allegation of computer misuse.

Mr Nelson said the second potential breach of standards of professional behaviour came to light during the investigation into the first set of allegations.

"I will emphasise that the decision to suspend has no bearing on any indication of guilt and should not be seen as such," he added.

In a statement the IOPC said: "We can confirm we have served a second gross misconduct notice on chief constable Rod Hansen over further conduct allegations.

"The new allegations relate to the extent of the chief constable's involvement in a recruitment process for a member of Gloucestershire Constabulary staff, his account of any involvement, and whether his actions complied with force policies and procedures.

"Our original investigation into the chief constable's handling of an allegation of computer misuse and a potential data breach by another member of staff is well advanced."

Mr Nelson said he had briefed the leadership of the force on the latest development, and they have assured him that this will not affect the delivery of operational policing in the county.

The force will be operating as normal, under the temporary chief constable Maggie Blyth.

"The independent investigation must now be allowed to take its course and I will not be commenting further on matters related to that investigation," Mr Nelson said.

The IOPC added that the serving of misconduct notices does not necessarily mean any disciplinary proceedings will follow.

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