New allegations against chief constable dismissed

The police and crime commissioner (PCC) for Cumbria will not re-open a complaint that the force’s temporary chief constable obstructed a fraud investigation into a major haulage company while receiving free helicopter rides from a director.

Stuart Hyde, who has been suspended from his post since September, was accused of blocking an inquiry into suspected fraud by the Stobart haulage company relating to the sale of Carlisle Airport.

Peter Elliott, a former aviation director of WA Developments International (WADI) who worked with William Stobart and Andrew Tinkler, directors of the Stobart group, alleged in a hearing at the High Court last week that Mr Hyde had an “unacceptable” relationship with the company and took advantage of the offer of free helicopter rides in contravention of police guidelines.

Mr Elliott, who was imprisoned in June last year for breaching a court order by sending letters attacking Mr Tinkler’s reputation, called for Cumbria Constabulary to reopen the investigation into the sale of Carlisle Airport.

He claimed: “Stuart Hyde was promoting Stobarts in the media while there was an investigation actively going on.”

A spokesperson for the PCC, Richard Rhodes, said that the complaint by Mr Elliott had first been reported to his predecessor, Cumbria Police Authority, on December 20, 2011, which decided there was no further action to be taken, and the PCC maintains this position.

Mr Hyde, who continues to face an investigation into his conduct by South Wales Police’s chief constable over allegations believed to relate to his management style, denied the accusations made by Mr Elliott on his personal website.

“I did not block an investigation and I have never asked for, been offered, or taken any helicopter flights during my time in Cumbria,” he said.

Mr Rhodes carried out the four-weekly review of Mr Hyde’s position and decided that he should remain suspended.

Mr Rhodes said: “South Wales Police continue to thoroughly investigate the allegations and it is important that they are allowed sufficient time to do so.”

Mr Hyde said he is disappointed that his suspension continues.

“I have continued to cooperate fully with the investigation and will carry on doing. While I have accepted throughout that I will learn from any shortcomings, I am confident that the allegations against me will not be substantiated,” he added. “I still await the opportunity to see in detail any of the allegations and respond to them.”

“I very much hope the investigation will conclude soon and I remain committed to return to my role as chief constable and to serving Cumbria.”

Mr Rhodes confirmed that Merseyside Deputy Chief Constable Bernard Lawson will continue to be seconded to lead the force in the meantime.