By Julian Whittle

Last updated at 11:31, Thursday, 27 December 2012

The county’s temporary chief constable says he is “deeply disappointed” that his suspension will continue.

Suspended: Chief constable Stuart Hyde

Stuart Hyde was suspended in September following allegations of serious misconduct.

And now, Cumbria’s new police and crime commissioner – Richard Rhodes – has renewed his suspension after reviewing the case every four weeks.

A statement on Mr Hyde’s web blog says: “I have co-operated fully and voluntarily submitted information to the IPCC, Cumbria Police Authority and the South Wales Police investigation team. I remain deeply disappointed that my suspension continues.

“I look forward to the investigation concluding and I am absolutely committed to return to my role as Chief Constable and to serving Cumbria.”

Mr Rhodes said: “Following a full briefing and, given that the investigation by South Wales Police continues, I have decided that temporary chief constable Stuart Hyde should remain suspended.

“South Wales Police continue to investigate the allegations as swiftly as possible.

“The allegations against temporary chief constable Hyde must be addressed in an appropriate manner and following the process set out in the legislative scheme.

“I stress that suspension is a neutral act that will enable a full and thorough investigation to take place.”

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) carried out initial inquiries and concluded that the allegations against Mr Hyde did not “amount to serious misconduct” or were “based on unsupported suspicion”.

But it added that “some matters may require an investigation”.

That triggered the inquiry being carried out by Peter Vaughan, chief constable of South Wales Police.

Bernard Lawson, the deputy chief constable of Merseyside Police, is in temporary charge of Cumbria Constabulary while Mr Hyde is suspended.

First published at 11:11, Thursday, 27 December 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk