Gloucestershire Police Chief Constable Rod Hansen has been served a second gross misconduct notice, prompting his suspension from the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), where he had been redeployed pending the outcome of a separate investigation.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating two separate allegations against Mr Hansen. The first relates to his handling of a reported case of computer misuse and a potential data breach by a staff member. The second set of allegations, revealed this week, concern Mr Hansen’s involvement in a recruitment process and whether he adhered to force policies and procedures.
Suspension by PCC
Chris Nelson, Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, confirmed the decision to suspend Mr Hansen fully from duty following the second misconduct notice:
“Having considered the seriousness of the allegations, I have taken the decision to suspend Mr Hansen pending the outcome of the investigation,” said Mr Nelson. “This should not be seen as an indication of guilt.”
He added that the second breach came to light during the IOPC’s ongoing inquiry into the original allegations and that the integrity of the police force’s operations remains unaffected.
Force to Continue Under Acting Leadership
In Mr Hansen’s absence, Temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth will continue to lead the Gloucestershire force. Mr Nelson said senior leadership has assured him that the force will remain fully operational.
The IOPC reiterated that the service of misconduct notices does not automatically imply wrongdoing or that disciplinary proceedings will follow.
IOPC Statement
A spokesperson for the IOPC confirmed:
“We have served a second gross misconduct notice on Chief Constable Rod Hansen over further conduct allegations relating to a recruitment process, his account of that involvement, and whether his actions complied with force procedures.”
“Our original investigation into the handling of an allegation of computer misuse is well advanced.”
Key Timeline
- October 2024: Mr Hansen is suspended over an initial gross misconduct allegation.
- Subsequent weeks: He is redeployed to the NPCC while under investigation.
- May 2025: A second gross misconduct notice is issued; Mr Hansen is fully suspended from his duties.
