Top cop facing double probe to return to work
ONE of Scotland’s top police officers will return to work after suspension – despite two watchdog probes still ongoing.
Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins was stood down from his duties by the Scottish Police Authority in November after allegations were made against him.
The SPA decided to lift the suspension at a meeting yesterday. A spokeswoman said: “While independent investigatory proceedings in relation to the officer have not concluded, the committee’s decision has been informed by the views of the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc).”
Higgins remains the subject of criminal and misconduct investigations by Pirc – one with referrals from the Crown Office and the other by the SPA – but he denies the allegations made against him.
His solicitor said he is pleased to be returning to work, which is expected to be on Monday. Callum Anderson, of Levy & MacRae, said: “He has fully co-operated with every stage of the investigation and provided a substantial body of evidence to demonstrate all of the allegations against him are without foundation.”
Pirc said: “We have responsibility to investigate such allegations to identify whether the evidence supports the allegations made and then to report to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and/or the SPA. The question of suspension is a matter for the SPA and is an entirely different process.”
Police Scotland said: “Bernard Higgins will return to work on Monday, March 19. His return will bring greater resilience to the executive team.”