A former chief constable is facing potential disciplinary action following allegations of undisclosed sexual relationships and abuse of power. Scott Chilton, who retired from his post while under investigation earlier this year, now has a case to answer for serious breaches of professional standards.
Investigators uncovered evidence relating to two separate sexual relationships with officers. The first occurred prior to his appointment as chief constable, while the second took place after he assumed the role, both of which were reportedly never disclosed.
Crucially, the investigation alleges Chilton failed to reveal a previous sexual relationship during his application process for the chief constable position. This omission raises questions about the integrity of his appointment and the vetting procedures in place.
Further allegations detail instances of sexual activity while on duty, before he became chief constable. These claims are compounded by accusations that he repeatedly and falsely denied the relationship to senior officials within the police force and the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
The most serious accusation centers on the claim that Chilton abused his position for sexual purposes while serving as chief constable. Failing to declare this relationship constitutes a significant breach of trust and professional conduct.
Derrick Campbell, director of the Independent Office for Police Conduct, emphasized the gravity of the allegations. Any instance of an officer exploiting their position for personal gain is treated with the utmost seriousness, he stated.
The IOPC has determined that sufficient evidence exists to warrant a full disciplinary hearing. The responsibility now falls to the Police and Crime Commissioner to arrange these proceedings, where a panel will assess the evidence and determine whether gross misconduct occurred.
The office of the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner has confirmed its agreement with the IOPC’s findings. A date for the disciplinary hearing will be set, allowing for a thorough examination of the allegations against the former chief constable.
