Cornwall Police Acting Chief Suspended Over Misconduct Allegations

Jim Colwell faces investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct for alleged misuse of a work phone and conduct related to a disciplinary matter.

Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell of Devon and Cornwall Police has been suspended following allegations of professional misconduct.
The suspension was initiated by Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, who referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The IOPC is investigating claims that Colwell used his work-issued mobile phone to exchange personal messages unrelated to policing and his conduct in a disciplinary matter.
Colwell’s suspension follows the earlier suspension of Chief Constable Will Kerr in July 2023 over allegations of sexual offenses and issues related to a vetting process.
Hernandez emphasized that the suspension is a neutral act to allow for an independent investigation and does not imply guilt or confirm the allegations.