The head of England’s largest non-metropolitan police force has been suspended from his role with immediate effect.
Thames Valley’s Police and Crime Commissioner said Chief Constable Jason Hogg was currently being investigated by the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) for gross misconduct.
The investigation involves concerns that Mr Hogg failed to adequately investigate allegations around the improper retention of sensitive police information.
PCC Matthew Barber said an interim appointment would be made by the end of January.
In a statement, Mr Barber said the IOPC investigation related to alleged “breaches of the standards of professional behaviour amounting to failure in duties and responsibilities, and a lack of honesty and integrity”.
“This announcement will come as a shock to many across Thames Valley, especially to our hard-working police officers and staff, but it is right that any allegations of this serious nature are dealt with consistently and investigated properly and thoroughly,” he said.
“I emphasise that the decision to suspend is a neutral act.”
“It has no bearing on any indication of guilt and should not be seen as such,” he said.
Mr Hogg was appointed as TVP’s chief in April 2023, and has been with the force since 2016.
Current Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs will lead the force until the interim appointment is made, Mr Barber said.
He added that there was no criminal investigation into the Chief Constable.
The BBC has contacted Thames Valley Police and the IOPC to request a comment, which TVP has declined.