Investigation into Hampshire Chief Constable

2025

The Southern Daily Echo has uncovered a major policing scandal, prompting the resignation of Hampshire’s chief constable, Scott Chilton, following a series of exclusive reports into allegations of undisclosed relationships with junior colleagues.

The revelations centre on claims that Mr Chilton, a former counter-terrorism officer and head of more than 5,600 officers, staff and PCSOs across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, failed to disclose a relationship formed earlier in his policing career while serving in a senior role.

The investigation was triggered earlier this year during a separate misconduct hearing, when a former detective alleged that Mr Chilton had engaged in an affair with a junior officer. The claim led to a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which launched an investigation into whether the chief constable had breached professional standards by failing to declare a potential conflict of interest.

Mr Chilton remained in post while the inquiry progressed. However, in a significant development revealed by the Echo, a second referral was later made to the watchdog, leading to a further investigation into potential gross misconduct – this time involving an additional relationship believed to have taken place during his time as chief.

Just weeks after the Echo’s reporting brought the new probe to light, Mr Chilton announced his immediate retirement, ending a 33-year career in policing.

The Echo’s investigation has shed light on the leadership of one of the South’s largest police forces and raised serious concerns about the culture of accountability within senior ranks. Questions are now being asked about the systems in place to ensure openness and transparency when allegations are made against senior officers.

The IOPC has confirmed its investigation into Mr Chilton remains ongoing despite his resignation. While no formal findings have yet been made, the Echo’s reporting has triggered renewed calls for consistent national standards in handling police misconduct and for greater transparency when those at the top are accused of breaching public trust.

What began as an exclusive investigation by the Southern Daily Echo has now become a moment of reckoning for police oversight and a powerful reminder of the role local journalism plays in holding public institutions accountable.