Northamptonshire Chief Constable Nick Adderley has been found to have a case to answer for gross misconduct following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The allegations include wearing a Falklands War medal he did not earn and falsely claiming to be a Royal Navy officer.
The IOPC submitted a report to the office of the Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC), which concluded there was sufficient evidence to warrant an accelerated disciplinary hearing. PFCC Stephen Mold accepted the finding and said an independent panel would be convened to consider the allegations at the earliest opportunity.
Mr Adderley previously stated that the medals he wore were gifted by his brothers, one of whom became critically ill and the other emigrated. The medals include a South Atlantic medal awarded for the 1982 Falklands War. However, Mr Adderley was 15 years old at the time of the conflict and served in the Royal Navy for less than two years, leaving because he was not suited for life in the service.
The IOPC identified potential breaches of professional standards for honesty, integrity, and discreditable conduct. Its criminal investigation into the allegations is ongoing, and a decision on whether to refer the case to the Crown Prosecution Service will be made after the conclusion of that investigation.
Mr Adderley, known for his outspoken defence of police officers, has denied any wrongdoing. In a statement, he expressed disappointment that a personal family issue had been leaked and said he had changed the side on which the gifted medals are worn after seeking advice.
