Public 'could lose faith' in Police Scotland, says shadow justice secretary

Police Scotland is back in the spotlight after one of their top officers was suspended from duty.

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins is one of four officers being investigated on criminal and misconduct allegations and two others have been places on restricted duty.

A further seven officers are under investigation for gross misconduct over the case of murdered prostitute Emma Caldwell who was found dead in woods in South Lanarkshire in 2005.

Chief Constable Phil Gormley remains on special leave following claims of bullying, which he denies.

Scottish Tory Shadow Justice Secretary Liam Kerr said:

"This is hugely concerning, these are very serious allegations and they need be thoroughly investigated but, of course, we shouldn't rush to judgement and the investigation should be allowed to run its course.

"The big concern is the public will be feeling like any time we read about Police Scotland, it is because another chief has been suspended.

"People across Scotland will be very concerned at this latest development and the public may will begin to question whether things are unraveling at Police Scotland.

"Certainly stable leadership is what is needed throughout these investigations and going forward."