WIREDGOV

The IPCC will manage an investigation into allegations that Alison Hernandez, the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), failed to properly declare election expenses when employed as an election agent during the 2015 General Election.

The managed investigation will be undertaken by West Mercia Police under the direction and control of the IPCC, and overseen by IPCC Deputy Chair Sarah Green.

At the time of the alleged offence Ms Hernandez was employed as an election agent for the Conservative candidate in the Torbay constituency. The allegations against her were referred to the IPCC by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner following her election as PCC on 5 May, and relates to a wider investigation being undertaken by Devon & Cornwall Police.

IPCC Deputy Chair Sarah Green said:

"As Ms Hernandez is now a Police and Crime Commissioner, the IPCC will manage an investigation looking at whether she properly declared election expenses whilst acting as an election agent during the 2015 General Election. On completion of the investigation we will decide whether any matters should be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service for its consideration."