The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched two additional investigations into Chris Noble, a former assistant chief constable of Humberside Police, who is currently suspended from his role as chief constable of Staffordshire Police. The new probes relate to his conduct while on duty and/or on police premises during his time at Humberside Police in 2021 and at Staffordshire Police in 2024 and 2025.
Mr Noble was suspended last August following initial investigations into concerns about his behaviour outside of work. He also faces separate scrutiny over allegations that he shared confidential information without a policing purpose. These investigations stem from referrals made by Staffordshire’s Office of the Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner in April, June, and July last year.
An IOPC spokesperson confirmed that Mr Noble has been served notice that he is under investigation for potential gross misconduct. The investigation will consider whether he may have breached police professional standards relating to discreditable conduct and duties and responsibilities. The spokesperson added that serving notice does not necessarily mean disciplinary proceedings will follow.
The Chief Police Officers’ Staff Association (CPOSA) stated that Mr Noble “completely and categorically denies any wrongdoing” and continues to engage fully with the IOPC investigation. Mr Noble was appointed to Humberside Police in 2017 and left in December 2021 to become chief constable of Staffordshire Police.
