Thames Valley Police Chief Constable Jason Hogg has been suspended amid an investigation into claims of ‘gross misconduct’, The Police & Crime Commissioner confirmed today.
Hogg is understood to have been suspended with immediate effect as the police watchdog continue to investigate allegations of gross misconduct, the Commissioner for Thames Valley, Matthew Barber said.
The suspension came following a meeting with the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC), where the Commissioner was told the allegations against Hogg, if proven, would amount to gross misconduct.
‘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,’ Mr Barber said.
He explained that the IOPC’s investigation into the Chief Constable involved concerns that he failed to adequately investigate allegations ‘relating to the improper retention of sensitive police information’.
‘The matters relate to alleged breaches of the standards of professional behaviour amounting to failure in duties & responsibilities and a lack of honesty & integrity,’ he added.
There is no currently no criminal investigation ongoing in relation to the Chief Constable.
Hogg was first appointed at the Chief Constable for Thames Valley Police in April 2023, and has been with the policing authority since 2016.
The suspended chief had previously spoken on the progress the force had made on knife crime and sexual violence during his first year in the role in 2024.
During his first twelve months at the helm of TVP, knife crime levels had plummeted by 11 per cent with charges for sexual offences increasing.
According to ONS data, Thames Valley maintained a significantly lower violent crime rate than the UK on average.
At the time, he told the BBC: ‘The streets are safer than ever before but people don’t feel that… and there’s real fear.
‘Knife crime has been an absolute priority… We’re the safest force in the country when it comes to serious violence.’
The Police & Crime Commissioner also confirmed as part of his duty he would appoint a Temporary Chief Constable.
He is due to appoint an individual by the end of the month, but until then Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs, will take up the role.
‘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,’ Mr Barber said.
‘I urge the IOPC to conclude their investigations and to present evidence as swiftly as possible.
He added: ‘I will continue to hold Thames Valley Police accountable for their performance and work closely with the Force to ensure the police continue to protect the public, prevent crime and catch criminals.’
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.
