Staffordshire Police chief constable suspended amid misconduct investigation
Staffordshire Police Chief Constable Chris Noble has been suspended while an independent investigation into allegations about his conduct takes place.
A referral was made to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) last year concerning the chief constable, based on information provided by it. This investigation is ongoing.
Staffordshire police, fire and rescue and crime commissioner for Ben Adams said additional allegations have now been made against the chief constable that meet the threshold for suspension.
These allegations are not work related and pre-date Mr Noble’s time with Staffordshire Police, said Mr Adams. As a result of these further allegations, he has suspended the chief constable pending the outcome of the IOPC’s investigations.
Mr Adams said: “Public confidence in the police service is vital so all allegations of misconduct must be fully and independently investigated.
“In the interests of the public, Staffordshire Police and the chief constable himself, I have decided to suspend Mr Noble from his role pending the outcome of the IOPC’s investigation.
“Suspension is a neutral act, to enable an independent and thorough investigation to take place. It has no bearing on any indication of guilt and should not be seen as such.”
He added: “I know that this announcement will come as a shock to many across Staffordshire, especially our hard-working officers and staff, but it is right that allegations of this serious nature are dealt with consistently and investigated properly and thoroughly.
“I continue to be focused on the communities of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, and ensuring that Staffordshire Police continues to keep our residents safe, protect the vulnerable, and prevent and detect crime and anti-social behaviour.”
Mr Adams said his team was now working to identify a temporary chief constable.