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20
Dec 2023
Last Updated: 20/12/2023
Senior North Yorks police officer faces criminal investigation over speeding claims
Speed camera. Pic: Motoring Research
The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating an allegation that a senior North Yorkshire Police officer may have provided a false or misleading account to avoid a speeding sanction.
The IOPC, which handles complaints against police forces in England and Wales, said today it had opened a criminal investigation into the matter in November after hearing about the allegation.
Today's statement added:
"This week, we notified the officer they are under criminal investigation for the potential offences of misconduct in public office, improper exercise of police powers and intent to pervert the course of justice.
"They have also been served notice, informing them that we are investigating gross misconduct in relation to potential breaches of the police standards of professional behaviour for honesty and integrity; duties and responsibilities; and conduct.
"We have been advised that the officer has subsequently been suspended from duty."
The name of the officer, or where he or she is based, has not been revealed.
IOPC director David Ford said:
“Where a serious allegation such as this is made, it is important for a thorough investigation to take place to uncover the facts.
“In light of the nature of the allegation and the seniority of the officer involved, this will be carried out by the IOPC, independently of the police.
“I would like to make clear that the launching of a criminal investigation does not necessarily mean that criminal charges or disciplinary proceedings will follow.”
Mr Ford added:
“At the conclusion of the investigation, we will decide whether to refer a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision, and also decide whether the officer should face disciplinary proceedings.
“Our investigation is at an early stage, and we will provide further updates when we are in a position to do so.”
A spokeswoman for North Yorkshire Police issued a statement about the investigation:
“North Yorkshire Police is aware of an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
"It would be inappropriate to comment further due to the ongoing investigation and as it is led by the Independent Office for Police Conduct all enquiries should be directed to them at this stage.”
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