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Scotland's police chief investigated for alleged gross misconduct

Phil Gormley
Phil Gormley confirmed that he is the subject of a conduct investigation, but did not comment further. Photograph: Danny Lawson/PA

Scotland’s chief police constable is being investigated for alleged gross misconduct after a complaint by another officer.

Phil Gormley, the former deputy director general of the National Crime Agency, announced on Wednesday evening that he was under investigation in a statement issued by Scottish police investigations and review commissioner.

No details have been released about the nature of the complaint, but it is thought that it concerns Gormley’s interactions with a junior officer. Serious allegations, if proven, could result in Gormley being sacked.

“I can confirm I was informed by the PIRC that I am the subject of a conduct investigation,” Gormley said. “I am cooperating fully with the PIRC and will provide all necessary assistance to bring this matter to a timely and satisfactory conclusion.

“In fairness to others who may be involved, it is not appropriate for me to comment further at this time. I would like to stress that I remain focused on leading Police Scotland, ensuring that we continue to serve and protect the people of this country.”

Because of Gormley’s seniority, force regulations mean the complaint is passed to the PIRC instead of being handled by its professional standards department. The PIRC would pass on its findings to the Scottish Police Authority (SPA), which would decide whether a misconduct hearing is required.

Willie Rennie, the Scottish Liberal Democrat leader, told BBC Radio Scotland that Gormley should stand aside for the duration of the inquiry.

“When the head of the organisation is being investigated, perhaps it would be best if they stood to one side while a quick investigation was under way,” he said. “That’s something for him to consider, depending on how serious the allegations are.”

Niven Rennie, a former president of the Association of Scottish Police Superintendents, said the SPA would already have weighed up whether the complaint was serious enough to require Gormley’s suspension.

“If they think it’s necessary to call on the chief constable to stand aside, they will do that, but I would think that’s quite a jump,” he said.