Jim Colwell, the acting chief constable of Devon and Cornwall Police, has been suspended pending an investigation into allegations of breaching professional standards according to PA Media.

The moves comes little over a year after the suspension of former chief, Will Kerr.

Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez enacted the suspension.

She has also made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which has confirmed it will investigate the allegations.

Mr Colwell was appointed as acting chief constable in July 2021. Read more: Jim Colwell appointed new Deputy Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police.

Former chief constable Will Kerr was suspended in 2023, pending an investigation by police in Northern Ireland. Read more: Devon and Cornwall Police's Chief Constable suspended

Ms Hernandez said she will announce interim leadership arrangements in due course.

She said: “Sadly it has been my duty to suspend A/CC Jim Colwell and refer this matter to the IOPC.

“Suspension is a neutral act to enable an independent and thorough investigation to take place.

“It has no bearing on any indication that the allegations will be upheld and should not be seen as such.

“A/CC Colwell has seven days to make representations to me relating to his suspension.

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Hernandez added: “As required for any suspension of a senior officer, I have this morning informed the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Panel of my decision and fully understand that there may be concerns within the force, in our communities and with our partners in relation to this suspension.

“I share those concerns and resolving leadership issues in the force remains my most pressing priority.”

Mr Colwell was leading the force in place of chief constable Will Kerr who was suspended in July last year.