Senior police officer suspended over criminal conduct claims

ONE of Police Scotland’s most senior officers has been suspended amid an investigation into criminal conduct, it emerged last night.

Asst Chief Constable Bernard Higgins was suspended with immediate effect yesterday by the Scottish Police Authority, the force watchdog. It is investigating “a number of criminal and misconduct allegations” but a spokesman for Mr Higgins said he “denies and rejects” any allegations of wrongdoing.

Three other officers have also been suspended and another two have been placed on restricted duties. It is the latest crisis to engulf Police Scotland after Chief Constable Phil Gormley went on “special leave” in September while allegations of bullying are investigated.

The accusations facing Mr Higgins are understood to be unconnected. The SPA board said it took the decision after the allegations were brought to its attention by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner. The authority can suspend a senior officer on the condition that an effective criminal or misconduct investigation may be prejudiced, or if the allegations would make suspension in the public interest.

A spokesman for Mr Higgins said: “He will fully cooperate with the investigation. He intends to resume his duties as soon as this matter is resolved.”