Senior police officer at centre of misconduct row returns to work
One of Scotland’s most senior police officers has returned to work after more than three months’ suspension.
Assistant Chief Constable Bernie Higgins, who headed the firearms unit and responses to major incidents, has been moved to lead local policing in the west of Scotland.
The change comes after ACC Higgins’s suspension in November 2017 following allegations of gross misconduct and criminal behaviour.
Investigations into these claims, which included allegations of unauthorised use of the police firing range at Jack- ton near East Kilbride, and involved three other officers, have been carried out by the independent Police Investigation and Review Commissioner (Pirc).
The claims have been denied by ACC Higgins, who has described them as vexatious. His suspension was lifted by the Scottish Police Authority.
Mr Livingstone said ACC Higgins’s responsibilities would be taken on by ACC Mark Williams.
Mr Livingstone said: “ACC Higgins is the only member of the executive who has, until now, retained the original portfolio he had at the creation of Police Scotland five years ago.
“He has significant experience and a high profile in local policing, particularly in the west of Scotland. This move will provide him with a fresh challenge.”