Police chief facing misconduct inquiry

Sir Peter Fahy

THE Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and three other officers are facing a criminal investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Sir Peter Fahy, a detective superintendent and a detective chief inspector have all been issued with notices advising them of investigations into allegations made by a whistleblower that the officers’ conduct may have breached standards of professional behaviour.

Sir Peter has been served with a criminal and gross-misconduct notice relating to his support of an allegedly poorly-handled investigation into a suspected sex offender.

Sir Peter said: “As a chief constable you face making complex decisions on a daily basis about many high-risk and challenging situations.

“It’s right this decision-making is scrutinised and I’m held to account as part of this investigation.”

The other two serving officers and a retired officer were also served with criminal and gross-misconduct notices for their roles.

The allegations relate to an inquiry into an alleged sex offender in 2012 that was allegedly poorly handled and covered up by the force.

The IPCC launched Operation Poppy in March, 2014, investigating claims by the whistleblower.

There are also claims the force misled the families of serial killer Harold Shipman’s victims regarding how body parts were disposed of and whether public safety was risked during an unauthorised bugging.

Assistant Chief Constable Terry Sweeney has been served with a gross misconduct notice for his role in the Shipman investigation.

The whistleblower also makes allegations of cronyism among senior officers.

Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “It’s clear these are serious allegations which must be investigated thoroughly.

“I would stress that the IPCC is at the beginning of its investigation and it’s my role to consider what action should be taken with regard to the chief constable.

“I’ve taken independent legal advice and nothing has been placed before me at this time which would make me consider Sir Peter’s position.

“I’ve asked the IPCC to update me regularly on the progress of the investigation and I will keep this decision under review.

“I understand that this investigation will cause uncertainty and will be of concern to the people of Greater Manchester.”