Advisor to Leicestershire's Police Commissioner investigated for gross misconduct

The allegations relate to when Mike Veale was Chief of Cleveland Police in 2018.

An advisor to the current Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire will be called before gross misconduct hearings following an investigation by Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The body said there was 'sufficient evidence' that Mike Veale had breached the standards of professional behaviour. 

The Former Chief Constable resigned from his post in 2019 after serious allegations came to light about his behaviour in office.

A spokesperson for the IOPC said:

“Former Chief Constable for Cleveland, Mike Veale, will face gross misconduct proceedings following an Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation into his conduct.

“Our investigation was completed, and our report and findings were provided to the Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) in February. We found that there was sufficient evidence to indicate that Mr Veale had breached the standards of professional behaviour. 

“Following discussion, we have accepted the then PCC’s determinations that Mr Veale should face proceedings for gross misconduct. The allegations relate to conduct between July and December 2018 when serving as Chief Constable.  

“It will be for the PCC to formulate the nature of the misconduct charges, based on our findings, and to bring those proceedings to a future misconduct hearing.

“All concerned parties have been notified.”

When Rupert Matthews was elected Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire in May, he said he entered into a 'short-term' agreement with Mr Veale where he acted as an 'advisor' on police matters.

In a statement Matthews continued, 

"Mr Veale has been transparent with me about the investigation he is currently under and the forthcoming public hearing.  It is important to note that he is currently not in breach of any misconduct regulations. The investigation process is ongoing, and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment on anything in relation to that at this time.”

His predecessor, Lord Willy Bach, has urged Mr Matthews to 'reconsider' the 'ill-judged' to appoint Mr Veale due to his 'highly public difficulties'.

In a scathing statement, Lord Bach said the affair was an 'embarrassment to Leicestershire'.