Acting police chief suspended

Jim Colwell under investigation

Jim Colwell, the Acting Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police has been suspended following allegations of professional misconduct.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has referred the situation to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The IOPC has confirmed it will investigate allegations that Mr Colwell misused his work phone for personal matters and potentially interfered in a force disciplinary process.

This is the second high-profile suspension within the force in recent months. Will Kerr, the former Deputy Chief Constable, was suspended in July 2023 on allegations of serious sexual offences from his time serving in Northern Ireland, which he denies.

Both suspensions have raised concerns about leadership within the force.

Commissioner Alison Hernandez has stressed that the suspensions are neutral acts to allow for thorough investigations stating, 'resolving leadership issues within the force remains my top priority.'