Chiefs future questioned
Avon and Somerset Police Federation has issued a damning letter against the forces chief constable.
Avon and Somerset Police Federation has issued a damning letter against the forces chief constable.
The letter, issued jointly by branch chair Kevin Phillips and secretary Paul Budd, was addressed to the areas police and crime commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens and said given the vetting requirements the College of Policing plans to introduce it is difficult to see how Nick Gargan would pass the vetting process.
It also said that they cannot envisage how he can expect the public or police officers to have confidence in his leadership.
A disciplinary hearing earlier this month found Mr Gargan not guilty of gross misconduct but guilty of eight charges of misconduct. He had been suspended since May 2014.
Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed that Mr Gargan will not be returning to work until the misconduct process is complete. He is currently carrying out duties at the National Police Chiefs Council.
Responding to the letter Ms Mountstevens said: I have seen the letter. The misconduct panel are now in the process of preparing a report. When I receive their report I will hold a further hearing with the chief constable to determine sanction.
A spokesperson for the Avon and Somerset branch of the Police Superintendents Association of England and Wales said the sanctioning of Mr Gargan was a matter for the PCC.