WIREDGOV

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) investigation into allegations the Avon and Somerset Chief Constable, Nick Gargan, abused his senior position by making inappropriate advances to junior female colleagues is complete. A report was given to the force’s police and crime commissioner (PCC) yesterday.

As part of this investigation Mr Gargan was interviewed regarding allegations of gross misconduct and under criminal caution for alleged breaches of the Data Protection Act.

IPCC Deputy Chair Rachel Cerfontyne said:

"I have provided the police and crime commissioner, Sue Mountstevens, with a report detailing our findings as to whether or not Mr Gargan has a case to answer for either misconduct or gross misconduct and should face disciplinary proceedings.

"Our investigation uncovered evidence that the Chief Constable may have breached the Data Protection Act by sending emails concerning police business, which contained personal data, to individuals unconnected to the force. Having carefully considered the evidence, I concluded that this was a matter for the PCC to consider under the disciplinary process, rather than make a referral to the Crown Prosecution Service.

"Under police complaints procedure, it is now a matter for the PCC to respond to me with a decision on what action she proposes to take as a result of our findings.”