New complaint against chief constable sent to watchdog
Scotland’s most senior police officer is facing a third bullying probe after a complaint against him was passed to investigators.
The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) yesterday confirmed it had referred the allegations against Chief Constable Phil Gormley to the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc).
It is understood the complaint was made by Inspector Aimee Canavan, who previously worked as a staff officer in the force executive.
The Pirc – which is assessing whether an investigation is required – is already investigating two separate bullying complaints against the chief constable from Superintendent Graham Mcinarlin and Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Graham.
In a statement, the SPA said: “The Scottish Police Authority has referred a complaint made against Police Scotland’s chief constable to the Pirc.
“This follows an assessment by the SPA which determined that, if proven, the allegations would amount to misconduct and require to be investigated.
“Complaint and conduct matters are confidential and the SPA will not provide any further comment on this case at this time.”
Mr Gormley announced his decision to go on leave earlier this month after details of the second complaint emerged. He remains on full pay.
The Pirc said the latest allegation amounted to misconduct, while the two previous complaints relate to gross mislooking
0 Chief Constable Phil Gormley announced his decision to go on leave earlier this month conduct and, if proved, would lead to the chief constable’s dismissal.
In a statement, it said: “The commissioner has received a referral from the SPA regarding allegations of misconduct about the chief constable.
“The content of the referral is now being assessed to establish if an investigation is required.
“Whilst this process is underway, it would be inappropriate to comment further.
“In addition, the commissioner is currently carrying out two separate investigations into allegations of gross misconduct about the chief constable, both of which are ongoing.”
Details of the latest complaint against the chief constable emerged as MSPS on Holyrood’s policing committee prepare to question justice secretary Michael Matheson on the running of the SPA, which is for a new chairman and chief executive.
Ahead of the meeting today, convener Mary Fee said: “Problems at the top of the Scottish Police Authority have been well documented.
“Whilst the willingness on the part of the Scottish Government to listen to concerns about the appointment of the new chair is welcome, questions remain about the leadership of the SPA.
“We will be seeking assurances from the Cabinet Secretary about the longer term role for parliament to ensure that in the future the right person, with the right mix of skills, is appointed.”