By Chris Wiliamson-
Former Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary chief constable Scott Chilton will face a gross misconduct hearing following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The watchdog said its inquiry found a case to answer for potential breaches of the police standards of professional behaviour, including honesty and integrity, authority and respect, orders and instructions, and discreditable conduct. Chilton retired in April while under investigation.
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The investigation examined allegations relating to two sexual relationships in the workplace that were not disclosed — one before Chilton became Chief Constable and another after his appointment. The IOPC said the allegations include failing to declare a previous relationship during the recruitment process, having sex with an officer while on duty, repeatedly denying the relationship to senior figures, and abusing his position for a sexual purpose.
IOPC director Derrick Campbell said allegations involving abuse of position are treated “extremely seriously” and that the evidence indicates potential breaches of professional standards.
Arrangements for the hearing will now be made by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner. The investigation began following a conduct referral in February 2025.
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Scott Chilton began his police career in 1992 with Hampshire Constabulary at 18, working initially in uniformed policing before joining the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in 1996 and spending about 16 years as a detective.
He rose through the ranks to chief superintendent and later held strategic leadership roles, including heading Special Branch and commanding crime and operations units covering Hampshire and neighbouring Thames Valley counties. He lead across all investigations teams, custody, the wider criminal justice system and intelligence.
Chilton also served as the national lead for investigations on behalf of all UK chief constables and took on roles related to tactics, training, equipment, and public order. He holds a master’s degree in applied criminology from the University of Cambridge.
Chilton left Hampshire in 2020 to become Deputy Chief Constable and was promoted to Chief Constable of Dorset Police in July 2021.
In February 2023, he returned to his original force as Chief Constable, becoming its first “home-grown” head after a rigorous selection process led by the Police and Crime Commissioner.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched investigations into allegations that Chilton. He failed to disclose a previous sexual relationship with another officer when applying to be chief constable, and whilst while serving as chief.
The IOPC says these matters might amount to breaches of police standards on honesty, integrity, use of authority, and professional conduct.
In April 2025, Chilton retired with immediate effect amid these ongoing investigations after 33 years in policing, with his retirement accepted by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner.
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