CHIEF constable Phil Gormley is set to resign with immediate effect.
Mr Gormley has been on special leave since September to facilitate a series of ongoing investigations into allegations of gross misconduct.
The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) is currently investigating four complaints, while three are being assessed internally. The chief constable has denied any wrongdoing.
Susan Deacon, Chair of the Scottish Police Authority, said:“Chief Constable Gormley has made a significant contribution to policing in Scotland. The delivery of the 10-year strategy “Policing 2026: Serving a Changing Scotland” provides a strong basis for Police Scotland to move forward. I would like to thank him for this contribution and wish him well for the future.
“This has been a challenging period for all concerned, and in the interest of policing in Scotland we now need to move on”.
Chief Constable Gormley said: “The last 8 months have been difficult for me and my family, in particular I would like to thank my wife for her love and loyalty. The events since November 2017 have led me to the conclusion that it is impossible for me to resume my duties in a meaningful way prior to the end of my contract.
“I now need to prioritise the health and wellbeing of my family on whom these events have taken a significant toll.
“The support of colleagues from across the UK with whom I have served during the last 32 years has been a source of great strength. As Chief Constable of Police Scotland I have had the privilege to meet and work with some exceptional people, I wish them well for the future and it is in their interests that I feel it is right to step aside.”
Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said: “On behalf of everyone at Police Scotland, I would like to thank Phil Gormley for his contribution to policing and wish him and his family well for the future.
“The last few months have been a difficult time for Police Scotland and for many individuals.
“My focus, and that of all officers and staff, will remain on day-to-day policing and serving the people of Scotland as we go forward.”
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