THE POLICE and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley has suspended Chief Constable Jason Hogg amid an ongoing investigation into misconduct.
Matthew Barber announced on Thursday, January 16, that he had taken the decision following a meeting with the Independent office of Police Conduct (IOPC).
It comes as a result of the investigation being conducted by the IOPC into concerns over “improper retention” of sensitive police information, which would amount to breaches of professional standards if found to be true.
There is no criminal investigation, however, and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has stressed that the move to suspend Constable Hogg bears no indication of guilt, allowing the investigation to continue properly.
Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs will act as a replacement until a temporary Chief Constable is appointed.
That appointment is expected to be made by the end of the month.
In a statement released earlier today, PCC Matthew Barber said: “This afternoon (Thursday, January 16), I have taken the decision to suspend Jason Hogg from his role as Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police with immediate effect.
“This follows a meeting earlier today with the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) in which they informed me that as part of an ongoing investigation that they are conducting they have assessed that allegations against the Chief Constable would, if proven, amount to gross misconduct.
“I emphasise that the decision to suspend is a neutral act. It has no bearing on any indication of guilt and should not be seen as such.”
He explained: “The IOPC investigation involves concerns that the Chief Constable failed to adequately investigate allegations relating to the improper retention of sensitive police information.
“The matters relate to alleged breaches of the standards of professional behaviour amounting to failure in duties and responsibilities and a lack of honesty and integrity–there is no criminal investigation into the Chief Constable.
“As Police and Crime Commissioner it remains my duty to secure the maintenance of an effective and efficient police force–it therefore falls to me to appoint a Temporary Chief Constable.
“I intend to make such an appointment by the end of the month, until which point the Deputy Chief Constable, Ben Snuggs, will fulfil those duties.”
He concluded: “This announcement will come as a shock to many across Thames Valley, especially to our hard-working police officers and staff, but it is right that any allegations of this serious nature are dealt with consistently and investigated properly and thoroughly.
“I urge the IOPC to conclude their investigations and to present evidence as swiftly as possible.
“It is for the IOPC to lead on any communication about the investigation itself, but in the meantime, I will continue to hold Thames Valley Police accountable for their performance and work closely with the Force to ensure the police continue to protect the public, prevent crime, and catch criminals.”
