Devon and Cornwall acting chief constable suspended while investigated for potential conduct matters
Devon and Cornwall Police Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell has been suspended by the police and crime commissioner (PCC) following alleged professional standards breaches.
PCC Alison Hernandez has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which has confirmed it will investigate the allegations.
Ms Hernandez said she will announce interim leadership arrangements in due course.
She said: “Sadly it has been my duty to suspend Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell and refer this matter to the IOPC.
“Suspension is a neutral act to enable an independent and thorough investigation to take place. It has no bearing on any indication that the allegation will be upheld and should not be seen as such.
Ms Hernandez added: “Acting Chief Constable Colwell has seven days to make representations to me relating to his suspension.
“As required for any suspension of a senior officer, I have this morning informed the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Panel of my decision and fully understand that there may be concerns within the force, in our communities and with our partners in relation to this suspension.
“I share those concerns and resolving leadership issues in the force remains my most pressing priority.”
The IOPC confirmed it has started an independent investigation into the conduct of the acting chief constable.
In a statement it said: “Following a referral from the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner on Monday November 25 we have started an independent investigation into the conduct of Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell.
“On Wednesday he was served a notice telling him he is being investigated for potential gross misconduct in respect of his use of a work issue mobile phone to exchange messages of a personal nature without a policing purpose.
“The notice also relates to his alleged conduct concerning a force disciplinary matter.
“Our investigation is in its very early stages. The serving of such a notice advises an officer their conduct is subject to investigation and does not necessarily mean that any proceedings will follow.”
Mr Colwell, who joined the force in 2001 at the age of 27 after graduating from Leicester University, became acting chief constable of Devon and Cornwall Police in July 2023.