Northamptonshire Police Chief’s Gross Misconduct Hearing Delayed Again
Three-Month Wait for Hearing on Medal Scandal
The gross misconduct hearing for Northamptonshire’s Chief Constable, Nick Adderley, has been pushed back by another three months. Originally set for February 28, the hearing will now kick off on May 28 due to “logistical reasons.”
Commander Suspended Over Medal Controversy
Adderley has been suspended since October 2023 after allegations surfaced that he faked military service. The claim centres on Adderley wearing a Falklands War medal – a conflict he was too young to fight in, being only 15 at the time. Adderley insists the medal belonged to his brother, but raised eyebrows by sporting it on the wrong side of his chest.
Suspended but Still Paid
The postponement means Adderley remains suspended but continues to draw his hefty salary, reportedly around £41,250, until the new hearing date. The disciplinary hearing will last three days and be overseen by an independent panel including a legally qualified chair, a representative from His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary, and an independent panel member.
Ongoing Investigation and Official Statement
Police watchdog investigations have found evidence to justify gross misconduct charges. Meanwhile, a separate criminal investigation is still underway. Callum Cowx, the panel chairman, confirmed the hearing’s postponement.
A spokesperson for the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner said, “There wasn’t enough time to properly hear the case in a single day, which is why the hearing has been rescheduled for three days in May.”
