A former chief constable will undergo a disciplinary hearing for allegedly engaging in sexual activity while on duty and not disclosing a relationship with another officer. Scott Chilton stepped down from his position at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary in April 2025 following accusations of two workplace romances. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed that a gross misconduct hearing is forthcoming after a referral was initiated by Hampshire’s police and crime commissioner, Donna Jones.
According to the IOPC, their investigation revealed potential breaches of police standards of professional behavior by the former chief constable concerning honesty, integrity, authority, respect, courtesy, orders, instructions, and discreditable conduct. The inquiry focused on undisclosed sexual relationships within the workplace, one prior to Chilton becoming chief constable and another post-appointment.
The IOPC specified that Chilton allegedly failed to disclose a prior sexual relationship with an officer during his application process for the chief constable position. Additional allegations include engaging in sexual activity while on duty before assuming the chief constable role and repeatedly denying the relationship dishonestly when questioned by senior officials from both the Hampshire and Isle of Wight police and crime commissioner’s office as well as the force.
Moreover, it is claimed that Chilton misused his authority for a sexual purpose by having a relationship with an officer during his tenure as chief constable and failing to disclose this connection. IOPC director Derrick Campbell emphasized the gravity of allegations involving officers exploiting their positions for sexual reasons.
Following the investigation, the decision was made for Chilton to face a disciplinary hearing. The police and crime commissioner will organize the proceedings, and a disciplinary panel will determine the outcome based on the evidence presented. Hampshire’s PCC office confirmed that Chilton’s case warrants a disciplinary hearing, with the hearing date to be scheduled soon.