Last updated at 11:10, Friday, 14 September 2012

One of Cumbria’s top cops has been suspended from duty after allegation as “serious misconduct”.

A police statement said: “Following a meeting of Cumbria Police Authority yesterday a decision has been taken to suspend Stuart Hyde, temporary chief constable of Cumbria Constabulary, 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.

“This is an isolated matter and does in no way reflect the conduct of the wider constabulary.

“We have consulted with HMIC, who have given us guidance on continuing leadership of Cumbria Constabulary.

Deputy chief constable, Bernard Lawson, from Merseyside Police has assumed the role of chief constable of Cumbria Constabulary, temporarily, effective immediately.

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

Acting Chief Constable for Cumbria Constabulary, Bernard 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."

First published at 11:05, Friday, 14 September 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk