Northumbria Police Chief Investigated For Misconduct

Chief Constable of Northumbria Police, Sue Sim, is being investigated over claims of misconduct.

She was told by Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird, that a group of officers had made complaints about her which made allegations about her behaviour.

The PCC said she's assessed the severity of the complaints and feels there is a case to be investigated as to whether the the chief contstable is guilty of misconduct.

Vera Baird said: "The nature of the complaints to be investigated is that the Chief Constable may have fallen short of her duty as a police officer to treat colleagues with respect and courtesy.

“I have appointed Mr Joel Bennathan, QC of Doughty Street Chambers, London, a Recorder of the Crown Court, to carry out that investigation."

She also confirmed that Sue Sim will not be suspended from her post and the investigation was not looking into gross misconduct at this time.

In a statement Sue Sim said: "Vera Baird has determined, in accordance with police regulations, that the matter will be investigated. "I have advised her that I will, of course, cooperate fully with the investigation and I am keen to do so at the earliest opportunity in the interests of Northumbria Police and the public we serve. "It would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment at this time."