11/07/2014

Suspended Chief Constable Questioned Over Data Protection Breach

An Avon and Somerset chief constable, currently suspended over allegations of gross misconduct, is to be questioned on suspicion of data protection offences.

Nick Gargan, who is suspended over allegations that he made inappropriate advances to female staff, is to be questioned about having breached the Data Protection Act by sending emails with personal data to individuals unconnected to the force.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said: "Mr Gargan has now been served with a notice informing him that this aspect of his conduct is subject to a criminal investigation."

Investigators have "examined a large amount of computer and telephone data" during the probe, with 50 members of staff from the force providing "information and intelligence", the IPCC has said.

(MH/JP)

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