Hampshire chief constable faces gross misconduct probe
It's alleged he failed to disclose a conflict of interest relating to workplace relationships - Mr Chilton retired with immediate effect
Last updated 7th Apr 2025
The Police Watchdog have opened an investigation into Hampshire and Isle of Wight Chief Constable, Scott Chilton, for potential gross misconduct.
IOPC director Derrick Campbell said: “This morning (7 April), we notified the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Chief Constable, Scott Chilton, that he is under investigation for potential gross misconduct.
This follows indications that he may have potentially breached police standards of professional behaviour relating to honesty and integrity; duties and responsibilities; discreditable conduct; and orders and instructions.
The investigation, which involves allegations that he failed to disclose a conflict of interest relating to a workplace relationship before he was chief constable, began following a conduct referral from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) on 27 February.
It was widened to include a further allegation, involving failing to disclose a conflict of interest relating to a further workplace relationship after becoming chief constable, following a second conduct referral from the PCC’s office on 31 March.
The IOPC said that the Chief Constable had retired from the force with immediate effect.
They added it would not impact their investigation, which remains ongoing.
The serving of a gross misconduct notice does not mean that disciplinary proceedings will necessarily follow.
At the end of their investigation, they will decide whether Mr Chilton should face disciplinary proceedings.
Interim chief
The Police and Crime Commissioner will now start the process to recruit a new Chief Constable and in the interim period she will appoint Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya as Acting Chief Constable.
Acting Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: “We are here, first and foremost, to deliver exceptional policing for our communities, putting victims first and bringing offenders to justice.
“This will continue to be our focus, to keep people safe and make sure they feel safe across our two counties.”