Cumbria's top cop suspended after 'allegations of serious misconduct' (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Cumbria's top cop suspended after 'allegations of serious misconduct'

10:59am Friday 14th September 2012 in News By Daniel Orr, Reporter

Cumbria's top cop suspended after 'allegations of serious misconduct'

CUMBRIA Police's temporary chief constable Stuart Hyde has been suspended from duty.

Allegations about the 'behaviour' of Mr Hyde have led to the move being taken by Cumbria Police Authority, which announced the move this morning (Friday).

The news comes less than a year after Mr Hyde took on the role following the departure of Craig Mackay, who became the deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police.

Bernard Lawson, deputy constable at Merseyside Police, has been appointed as acting chief constable for Cumbria.

Authority chairman Ray Cole said: “Following a meeting of Cumbria Police Authority on Thursday, a decision has been taken to suspend Stuart Hyde, from duty.

“The decision has been taken following a number of allegations of serious misconduct, which may indicate there has been a breach in the standards of professional behaviour, by Mr Hyde, in his activities as temporary chief constable.

“The authority takes all allegations against any police officer seriously and must address these allegations in an appropriate manner.

“On behalf of the authority, I would like to take this opportunity to reassure the community that Cumbria Constabulary remains a high-performing force, who are committed to ensuring that Cumbria remains a safe place to live, work and visit.

“This is an isolated matter and does in no way reflect the conduct of the wider Constabulary. All staff have been informed of this decision.

“The matter has now been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission as per the proper protocol."

Mr Lawson, said: “I would like to reassure the people of Cumbria that we will continue to work hard during this difficult period to deliver the high standards of service they have come to expect from us.

“The constabulary is fortunate to have police officers and staff who are committed to serving local communities and dedicated to making a difference to the quality of people’s lives.

"We are certainly all determined to ensure this continues as we work to make Cumbria safer.”

Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock said: "Cumbria's police need strong and trusted leadership at this difficult time so it is vital the matter which has led to this very serious measure is resolved quickly, thoroughly and fairly to all concerned."