Chief constable of Hampshire police, Scott Chilton, quits as investigation is launched into gross misconduct claims
THE chief constable of Hampshire police has quit following the launch of an investigation into claims of gross misconduct.
The allegations against Scott Chilton, who has worked in policing for nearly 33 years, are that he failed to disclose a conflict of interest relating to a workplace relationship before he was chief constable and another after he took on the role.
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones confirmed she had accepted his retirement with immediate effect.
An investigation was launched today (Monday) by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. IOPC director Derrick Campbell said: “This follows indications that he may have potentially breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to honesty and integrity, duties and responsibilities, discreditable conduct, and orders and instructions.
“Our investigation, which involves allegations that he failed to disclose a conflict of interest relating to a workplace relationship before he was chief constable, began following a conduct referral from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) on 27th February.
“It was widened to include a further allegation, involving failing to disclose a conflict of interest relating to a further workplace relationship after becoming chief constable, following a second conduct referral from the PCC’s office on 31st March.”
Mr Campbell added: “We understand that the chief constable has today retired from the force with immediate effect. This will not impact our investigation, which remains ongoing.
“The serving of a gross misconduct notice does not mean that disciplinary proceedings will necessarily follow. At the end of our investigation, we will decide whether Mr Chilton should face disciplinary proceedings. No criminal offences have currently been identified as part of our ongoing investigation.”
Mr Chilton joined Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary in 1992 where he worked his way up to assistant chief constable before becoming deputy chief constable and then chief constable of Dorset Police. He returned to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary in 2023 to take the role as chief constable.
PCC Donna Jones said: “The chief constable has retired after 33 years of service. The IOPC investigation will continue notwithstanding his retirement.
“As commissioner, I will now start the process to recruit a new chief constable. In the interim period I have appointed deputy chief constable Sam de Reya as acting chief constable to continue leading the force to deliver the best possible service to the public.”
