Retiring Chief Constable faces misconduct claims

An investigation into the behaviour of Paul Anderson, the retiring Chief Constable of Humberside Police, is under way

The retiring Chief Constable of Humberside Police is under investigation for allegations of misconduct, the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has confirmed.

Paul Anderson announced on Tuesday that he is retiring from the force after less than a year in his current role.

PCC Jonathan Evison said the investigation would continue despite Mr Anderson leaving.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said the allegations are "largely related to communication and behaviour towards colleagues".

It added: "We will now conduct a thorough investigation, independently of the police, into the matters brought to our attention."

The allegations against Mr Anderson were first sent to the PCC on Wednesday 12 June and then referred to the policing watchdog on Monday 24 June after initial enquiries.

Mr Anderson then released a statement on Tuesday 25 June via Humberside Police announcing a "difficult decision" to retire but said it was the "right time for me personally".

Timeline

12 June - Details of potential misconduct relating to the Chief Constable sent to the PCC.

19 June - Humberside Police offer media interview with the Chief Constable to celebrate his first year in the job and plans for the future.

22 June - Media interviews with Mr Anderson are cancelled after he was "called away urgently".

24 June - The PCC refers the misconduct allegations to the IOPC.

25 June - Mr Anderson announces plans to retire.

25 June - IOPC confirms to Mr Evison that an independent investigation into the allegations against Mr Anderson is under way.

26 June - Mr Evison releases a public statement confirming the allegations and investigation.

26 June - Humberside Police releases statement saying it will "co-operate fully with the investigation".

Humberside Police said: "We are aware of the IOPC investigation and will co-operate fully as required.

"It would not be appropriate for us to comment further whilst the investigation is under way."

Mr Anderson, whose career has spanned 34 years, took the top job at Humberside Police on 1 August 2023 after previously serving in Essex, Nottinghamshire and Scotland.

Announcing his retirement, he said it had been a "privilege" and an "honour" to serve the community and described Humberside Police as an "outstanding force".

The PCC has told the BBC that it will make no further comment on the situation while a live investigation is taking place.

However, they have confirmed they are in discussions to secure interim leadership while the recruitment process starts for a new Chief Constable.

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