Ex-police chief cleared of gross misconduct allegations
NO CASE TO ANSWER: Paul Anderson. Picture credit: Tom Arran
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Former Humberside Police chief constable Paul Anderson will face no further action after an investigation by the police watchdog into a series of allegations made by whistleblowers.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said the allegations, if proven, would have amounted to potential gross misconduct, but after considering all available evidence that threshold had not been met and there was no case to answer.
Mr Anderson denied all the allegations.
Announcing the outcome of the investigation today, IOPC director Emily Barry said: “Given the officer’s seniority, and the seriousness of the allegations made, it was important for there to be a thorough and independent investigation.
“We know how hard it can be to raise concerns about a colleague, especially when they are senior in rank. Whistleblowers and witnesses must feel supported to come forward where they have such concerns, knowing they will be listened to and taken seriously.
“In this case, the evidence did not indicate there was a case to answer for gross misconduct and so there will be no further action in respect of these allegations.”
The allegations were that Mr Anderson:
Made discriminatory, offensive, inappropriate or insensitive comments in the presence of colleagues and external stakeholders;
Relayed anecdotes appearing to suggest past actions that may have breached the police standards of professional behaviour;
Made inappropriate use of police resources; and
Abused his position to delay misconduct proceedings for his own benefit.
However, the IOPC also said: “We did find some evidence of some comments that may not have been in line with the behaviour expected of a senior officer. However, some witnesses told us they believed his behaviour was unintentional in some cases or not done with malicious intent.”
Mr Anderson announced his retirement on June 25, 2024, less than a year after taking command of the force. The next day the IOPC confirmed he was being investigated for alleged misconduct.
The same day, Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Evison revealed the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner had received “details of potential misconduct” relating to Mr Anderson on June 12, and had referred the matter to the IOPC on June 24.
The investigator’s report was completed in June 2025. The IOPC said: “As Mr Anderson had retired, legislation required us to determine whether he had a case to answer for gross misconduct, that is, whether there was evidence of actions so serious as to justify dismissal if proven.”
As Mr Evison was required to give a witness statement as part of the investigation, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Leo Hammond was appointed as the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s appropriate authority for the case.
Mr Hammond said: “This brings to a close an exceedingly thorough and completely independent investigation after which the IOPC determined that there is no case to answer. I would like to place on record our thanks to Paul Anderson for his long service and contribution to policing and community safety. We wish him every success in retirement.”
He also paid tribute to the force’s police officers, community support officers, special constables and police staff “who have continued to go out every day and to keep our communities safe whilst this investigation has been ongoing”.
He added: “It is with them in mind that I express my disappointment at the number of so-called ‘leaks’ and disingenuous political commentary that have occurred throughout this investigation, ultimately delaying the outcome.
“This behaviour undermines public confidence in due process and policing. We trust the IOPC’s determination will put an end to this type of mischief-making, highlighting the importance of allowing independent investigations to proceed without interference.”
Humberside Police said in a statement: “Chief Constable [Chris] Todd welcomes the conclusion of the IOPC’s process to end the recent speculation and so the focus on Humberside Police can return to celebrating the hard work that officers and staff are delivering every day.
“The force will fully support any employee who has been subjected to any form of inappropriate behaviour and we will work hard to ensure those bringing policing into disrepute and who are wearing away the trust and confidence the public has in policing are appropriately dealt with.
“The force will also support any employee who calls out inappropriate behaviour. Such behaviour will not be tolerated in Humberside Police. The force will not accept it, nor stand for it.”