THE Chief Constable Nick Gargan has handed in his resignation today (Friday).
Mr Gargan was found guilty of misconduct earlier this year and faced calls to resign from police bosses and the public.
Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens has accepted the resignation, which will take effect immediately.
Mr Gargan will leave his post with three-month’s salary in lieu of notice as the terms of his contract state.
Ms Mountstevens said: “I think this is in the best interests of the constabulary, and residents.
“I have agreed to pay Mr Gargan three-month’s salary in lieu of notice as the terms of his contract state.
“This was not a decision I took lightly and I have considered it very carefully however in order to bring the legal proceedings to a close this is the most cost effective outcome.
“It also means that I can begin the process of recruiting a new chief constable as soon as possible and the organisation can move on.”
Temporary Chief Constable Gareth Morgan will continue in the role while a recruitment process takes place.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here