Surrey Police: Jeremy Burton quits after relationship probe

Surrey Police's Deputy Chief Constable Jeremy Burton has retired

A police force's second in command has quit after an investigation into allegations he had an "inappropriate relationship" with a colleague.

Deputy Chief Constable Jeremy Burton, of Surrey Police, stood down after being told he had a case to answer for misconduct.

His retirement means the findings of a misconduct meeting will not be heard.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Munro said Mr Burton had "tarnished" the reputation of the force.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct said a five-month investigation into "allegations two Surrey Police officers conducted an inappropriate relationship" found evidence that indicated that both "had a case to answer having breached the standards of professional behaviour".

'Share his disappointment'

Mr Burton's decision to step down means that neither he nor Surrey Police will hear the findings of an internal misconduct meeting which would have been held by an independent and legally qualified chair.

The second officer was issued a final written warning on 14 February, after "admitting to two conduct matters," Surrey Police said.

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens said Mr Burton had "let himself, his colleagues and our communities down".

"In my view, Mr Burton's behaviour fell short of the standards that are expected of a police officer and as a chief officer," he said.

"This has been a difficult case, and I am satisfied that this is a proportionate outcome, recognising the severity level, and that Mr Burton will no longer be serving as a police officer, which brings an end to what has otherwise been a distinguished 31-year career."

Mr Munro added: "I have been kept updated on developments by the chief constable over recent months and I share his disappointment that Mr Burton's behaviour has unfortunately tarnished the reputation of the many hard-working officers and staff within Surrey Police."

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