Lincolnshire PCC investigated over chief constable recruitment

PCC Marc Jones said there were issues around the probability of candidates' information being shared with the public

A police and crime commissioner (PCC) is being investigated over the recruitment of a new chief constable.

Lincolnshire PCC Marc Jones put forward Paul Gibson in September 2020 as his preferred candidate, but withdrew his nomination amid issues with the process.

The police watchdog said it was investigating allegations of misconduct in public office and the accuracy of statements made by Mr Jones.

Mr Jones denies any wrongdoing.

In a statement, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it had received conduct referrals from the Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel.

It said an investigation "did not mean that any criminal charge would necessarily follow."

The watchdog said it had informed Mr Jones and the force's Police and Crime Panel of its inquiry.

Paul Gibson was selected as Mr Jones' preferred candidate in September 2020

Mr Jones said: "I want to state that, whilst I will work fully with the IOPC as they look into the matter, I am clear in my mind that there has been no wrongdoing and expect any inquiries to conclude the same.

"It is right that a system is in place to ensure decisions are taken correctly and in the public interest.

"However, due to the pressures placed upon the IOPC by their workload I expect it to be almost a year from now before this matter is closed, which is less than ideal.

"My focus remains, as ever, on ensuring our communities get the policing service they deserve and that we are striving to make Lincolnshire feel and be safer for all."

The allegations do not relate to the recruitment of the current chief constable Chris Haward, who took over in December last year, the IOPC added.

Mr Jones was re-elected as Lincolnshire PCC in May this year.