Chief Constable Phil Gormley resigns with immediate effect

Phil Gormley has resigned from his role as Chief Constable of Police Scotland with immediate effect – as investigations continue into claims of misconduct and gross misconduct.

Chief Constable Gormley requested a leave of absence in September 2017 to facilitate ongoing investigations into allegations made about him, which he denies.

In a statement, the Scottish Police Authority said Scotland’s former top cop feels that regardless of the outcome of the several ongoing investigations he will not be able to return to work.

The ongoing disciplinary process may take some time to be resolved.

Mr Gormley’s resignation comes ten months before the end of his contract.

Susan Deacon, Chair of the SPA, said:

“Chief Constable Gormley has made a significant contribution to policing in Scotland. The delivery of the 10-year strategy “Policing 2026: Serving a Changing Scotland” provides a strong basis for Police Scotland to move forward. I would like to thank him for this contribution and wish him well for the future. This has been a challenging period for all concerned, and in the interest of policing in Scotland we now need to move on”.

Chief Constable Gormley said:

“The last 8 months have been difficult for me and my family, in particular I would like to thank my wife for her love and loyalty. The events since November 2017 have led me to the conclusion that it is impossible for me to resume my duties in a meaningful way prior to the end of my contract. I now need to prioritise the health and wellbeing of my family on whom these events have taken a significant toll.

“The support of colleagues from across the UK with whom I have served during the last 32 years has been a source of great strength. As Chief Constable of Police Scotland I have had the privilege to meet and work with some exceptional people, I wish them well for the future and it is in their interests that I feel it is right to step aside."

Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said:

"On behalf of everyone at Police Scotland, I would like to thank Phil Gormley for his contribution to policing and wish him and his family well for the future.

"The last few months have been a difficult time for Police Scotland and for many individuals.

"My focus, and that of all officers and staff, will remain on day-to-day policing and serving the people of Scotland as we go forward."

Reacting to the Chief Constable's resignation, Labour Shadow Justice Secretary Daniel Johnson said:

"Police Scotland has been riddled by crisis and controversy for years now, but the case of Phil Gormley descended into utter farce and raised serious questions about ministerial oversight.

"This sorry affair has dragged the reputation of Scottish policing through the mud and must be incredibly demoralising for rank and file officers who put their lives on the line to keep communities safe.

"Regardless of Mr Gormley's decision to resign, there are still serious questions for Michael Matheson to answer."