Cleveland Police suspend senior officer

This evening Cleveland Police have confirmed they've suspended an officer of senior rank on suspicion of gross misconduct - following the case against a former detective

It follows claims they failed to take action when made aware of another officer's sexual misconduct.

In April 2018, following the start of the Simon Hurwood investigation, the Directorate of Standards and Ethics started to assess the conduct of an officer of senior rank connected to the case. This investigation, named Operation Gosport, centres on whether this officer failed to take appropriate measures once they were made aware of Hurwood’s behaviour, and wider potential breaches of standards of professional behaviour.

Following an assessment of conduct, the Directorate of Standards and Ethics has determined that these allegations, if admitted or proved, would amount to gross misconduct. I must stress, however, that there is a presumption of innocence throughout the investigative process which is right, fair and proper.

Xanthe Tait, Director of People and Evolve Legal Services

“Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen and thank you for attending today’s briefing.

“I can confirm that Cleveland Police has today suspended an officer of senior rank on suspicion of gross misconduct.

“We are releasing this information as it is in the public interest to do so, but I must stress that suspension is a neutral ac. It is important for all involved and specifically for the integrity of the investigation that there is a presumption of innocence throughout the investigative process.

“The decision to suspend will be kept under regular review and is governed by the Police (Conduct) Regulations 2012, the Home Office guidance on Police Officer Misconduct, Unsatisfactory Performance and Attendance Management Procedures and the Code of Ethics.

“Cleveland Police is committed to investigate allegations of misconduct, without regard to rank or seniority. The Service will listen, will act and will fairly investigate all information provided and will ensure that all those involved are fully supported.

“In closing I would reiterate that suspension is a neutral act from which no inferences should be drawn. An individual is innocent until proved otherwise.