Thames Valley Police chief suspended for alleged gross misconduct
The head of England’s largest non-metropolitan police force has been suspended with immediate effect.
Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner said Chief Constable Jason Hogg is currently under investigation for serious misconduct by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The investigation relates to Mr Hogg’s failure to adequately investigate allegations that sensitive police information was improperly withheld.
PCC Matthew Barber said the interim appointment would be made by the end of January.
Barber said in a statement that the IOPC investigation involved “a breach of standards of professional conduct resulting in a failure to discharge duties and responsibilities, as well as a lack of honesty and integrity”.
He said: “This news will be shocking to many people across the Thames Valley, particularly our hard-working police and staff, but any allegations of this serious nature will be dealt with consistently and appropriately and thoroughly. The investigation is correct.”
“I emphasize that the decision to suspend is a neutral act.”
“This is not associated with any indication of guilt and should not be viewed as such,” he said.
Mr Hogg appointed TVP Chairman April 2023has been working in the army since 2016.
Barbour said current Deputy Sheriff Ben Snuggs will lead the force until the interim appointment is completed.
He added that there was no criminal investigation into the police chief.
The BBC has contacted Thames Valley Police and IOPC for comment but TVP declined.
