The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has published the outcome of its investigation into former Humberside Chief Constable Paul Anderson, concluding that there is ‘no case to answer’.
IOPC director Emily Barry said: “In this case, the evidence did not indicate there was a case to answer for gross misconduct and so there will be no further action in respect of these allegations.”
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPCC) Leo Hammond was appointed the Appropriate Authority for this matter when the Police and Crime Commissioner was required to provide a witness statement.
Welcoming the end of the investigation, Leo Hammond said: “This brings to a close an exceedingly thorough and completely independent investigation after which the IOPC determined that there is no case to answer.
“I would like to place on record our thanks to Paul Anderson for his long service and contribution to policing and community safety. We wish him every success in retirement.
“I should also like to acknowledge the work of the 2,300 Police Officers, plus PCSOs, Special Constables and Police Staff of Humberside Police who have continued to go out every day and to keep our communities safe whilst this investigation has been ongoing. Their commitment to get the job done for local residents and businesses is commendable and it is thanks to them that both crime and anti-social behaviour have continued to fall during this time.
“It is with them in mind that I express my disappointment at the number of so-called ‘leaks’ and disingenuous political commentary that have occurred throughout this investigation, ultimately delaying the outcome.
“This behaviour undermines public confidence in due process and policing. We trust the IOPC’s determination will put an end to this type of mischief-making, highlighting the importance of allowing independent investigations to proceed without interference.
“PCC Jonathan Evison, alongside the entire team at the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, encourages the highest standards of conduct in Humberside Police. We will continue to hold the Chief Constable to account to embed the learning the IOPC identified from this process, ensuring that concerns are reported to the appropriate authority in a timely manner and that it is clear who the appropriate authority is to direct concerns. We will also continue to work with the force to promote a positive culture built on ethics and professionalism —which is what the public rightly expects of their Police Force.”
The full IOPC press statement can be found on their website
