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‘How can officers have confidence in Gargan?’
As a report recommends chief constable Nick Gargan should only be given written warnings for misconduct, three former chief constables of Avon and Somerset police have written an open letter calling for him to resign.
Dear Police and Crime Commissioner,
It is only after considerable thought and deliberation that we, the undersigned, feel compelled to write to you concerning the return to duty of the present Chief Constable, after eight cases of misconduct have been proved. We do not know the nature of the findings against him but regardless 8 proven counts of misconduct over a 15 month period is extremely grave for anyone. It tends to suggest a pattern of behaviour, even not knowing the circumstances.
is needed now More than ever
Prior to the appointment of the present post holder, we have led the Avon & Somerset Constabulary for a continuous period of 25 years out of the 41 years that the Avon and Somerset Constabulary has existed. Without actively seeking the views of others, either serving members of the Force or members of the public, we have been confronted with their incredulity that such a person, as the current incumbent, can continue to hold his position of high office after the findings of the disciplinary panel.
Policing has always been an extremely challenging profession. It seems, from what we have learnt, that morale in Avon & Somerset Constabulary is fragile and people that we have heard from do not welcome the return of the Chief Constable with any degree of confidence or enthusiasm. The post of Chief Constable requires the holder to lead the force by example, observing and upholding the highest levels of personal and professional behaviour and integrity, thereby exemplifying the highest standards to which the Force should aspire. Leaders should be inspiring not an embarrassment.
It is incomprehensible to us that a Chief Constable with such a large number of substantiated misconduct findings on his record could be respected as a leader and maintain the morale of the Force. How can the officers, staff, special constables and volunteers of Avon and Somerset Constabulary have confidence in their Chief Constable? If they cannot have confidence, then how can the wider community?
Sadly, it is our professional view that confidence cannot be restored without a change of Chief Constable.
Yours sincerely David Shattock, Steve Pilkington & Colin Port.
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