THE Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police, Patrick Geenty, will remain in his role while he is investigated over allegations of a cover-up relating to complaints made against the force.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, has decided against suspending Mr Geenty in the wake of the allegations, which relate to the manner in which the force handled complaints about the handling of allegations of historic sexual abuse, made between 2008 and 2010, when Mr Geenty was an assistant chief constable.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is carrying out the investigation, which also involves an inspector and a detective constable. 

Mr Macpherson said in a statement: "On Monday, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) announced that it was investigating the Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police, Patrick Geenty, in relation to the way the force dealt with complaints between 2008-10.

"The investigation comes after I contacted the IPCC on 29 August 2014. I made this contact after considering complaints which were referred to my office by the force earlier that month.

"In line with process, yesterday afternoon (September 16), Mr Geenty was served papers by the IPCC. As expected, these papers outlined allegations which, if proved, would amount to gross misconduct.

"My role as commissioner is to represent the people of Wiltshire and Swindon in police and crime matters.

"After giving careful consideration to information I have received from the IPCC, together with independent legal advice which my office commissioned, I have decided that the public interest would be best served by Mr Geenty continuing in his role whilst the IPCC investigation is underway. I am required to consult the IPCC on this decision and I have done so.

"The purpose of an investigation is to establish the facts behind a complaint and that is what I am waiting for.

"Nothing has been placed before me at this stage which, in my judgment, would justify suspension. If new evidence is produced by the enquiry team, I will review my decision.

"It would not be appropriate to make any further comment whilst the IPCC investigation is underway."

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