A hearing concerning Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Chief Constable Rod Hansen’s gross misconduct case is scheduled for July, amidst growing concerns over prolonged delays and escalating costs. Taxpayers have effectively been funding two chief constables for nearly 18 months.
Chief Constable Hansen, who denies all allegations, was initially suspended in October 2024 by Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Chris Nelson due to accusations tied to a 2022 data breach. The allegations suggest Hansen failed to take adequate action upon receiving information in October that year about a staff member allegedly conducting an unauthorized search of police systems and accessing third-party personal data in relation to a road traffic collision investigation.
Earlier this month, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) cleared Hansen of any wrongdoing in a separate investigation. Following this, his initial suspension was challenged and subsequently lifted by PCC Nelson, with arrangements made for Hansen’s redeployment to the National Police Chiefs’ Council. He began work on the Joint Police Reform programme in January 2025.
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However, a second misconduct investigation emerged over claims that Hansen improperly involved himself in the recruitment of police staff. This led to a second suspension in May 2025. The IOPC has since concluded this second investigation, again finding no case to answer.
Reports indicate Hansen’s legal team will soon request the PCC lift his suspension once more, given the latest IOPC findings.
Former Gloucestershire PCC Martin Surl criticized the ongoing situation, stating, “The delays are costly and damaging to all, and it’s increasingly difficult to understand why he remains suspended. There’s nothing complex about this investigation, and it should have been resolved months ago. Meanwhile, we are paying for two chief constables while the police and crime commissioner pleads poverty. Something isn’t right.”
At a recent police and crime panel meeting at Shire Hall, Councillor Gareth Kitchen noted public concerns and called for transparency. He asked how the PCC planned to facilitate accountability once the process concludes. PCC Nelson responded that, as the legal process is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time but expressed a willingness to share more details when appropriate after the hearing.
Panel chairman Ray Brassington remarked on the possibility that, should Hansen be cleared in July, the situation could result in the presence of two chief constables. Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) chief executive Ruth Greenwood responded by emphasizing the need to address issues as they arise and avoid speculation.
Chief Constable Hansen’s misconduct hearing will be held in public, starting on July 16 at a neutral Cheltenham location yet to be announced, and is expected to continue into the following week.