Top cop probe to hear 3rd complaint
Investigators will consider fresh bullying claim against Gormley
A THIRD bullying complaint against Scotland’s top police officer has been referred to independent investigators.
The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) confirmed they have passed on an allegation about Phil Gormley.
The Chief Constable is currently on “special leave” while two separate claims of gross misconduct are being investigated.
The SPA said if the latest complaint against Gormley is proven, it would amount to misconduct.
An SPA spokeswoman said: “Complaint and conduct matters are confidential and we will not provide any further comment.”
Three bullying complaints have been made against Gormley.
One was made by a male superintendent, another by a female inspector and another by Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Graham.
It’s understood the latest referral to the Police Investigation and Review Commissioner (Pirc) relates to the complaint by the female inspector.
Gormley, who took over the top job in January last year, stepped aside this month when it was revealed that two allegations were being investigated.
At the time, he denied the claims made against him, adding: “It is my intention to resume my full duties when this matter has been resolved.”
Senior figures at Holyrood are refusing to say if he will return as Chief Constable.
But they suggested the longer the investigation takes, the less likely it is he’ll return to lead the force.
Gormley is still picking up his £212,000 salary while he is at home in England.
Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone has taken over leadership of the force until further notice.
A Pirc spokesman said they had received a referral from the SPA regarding allegations of misconduct about the Chief Constable.
He added: “The content of the referral is being assessed to establish if an investigation is required.
“In addition, the commissioner is carrying out two separate investigations into allegations of gross misconduct about the Chief Constable., both of which are ongoing,”