Chris Noble has resigned as chief constable of Staffordshire Police, after being suspended in August 2025. The chief constable of Staffordshire Police has resigned ahead of a gross misconduct hearing into his behaviour.
Noble was suspended in August amid inquiries by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which confirmed in March that it had opened two more investigations into his behaviour. He resigned on Tuesday by letter to the Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire, Ben Adams.
The misconduct hearing began on Wednesday morning in Noble's absence.
Noble was selected to lead Staffordshire Police after the retirement of the previous chief constable in 2021. Before that, he was assistant chief constable of Humberside Police.
What did the commissioner say?
In a statement, Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams said:
“I can confirm that yesterday [28 July], I received Chief Constable Chris Noble's resignation, which I have accepted with immediate effect.
“Becky Riggs will remain as Staffordshire Police's acting chief constable.
“The misconduct hearing will continue today as planned, under former officer provisions.”
What is the IOPC saying?
In a recent statement, the IOPC said:
“The chair of the panel has directed that no additional information relating to the detail of the allegations can be released at this time.
“We are continuing to investigate other allegations relating to Mr Noble. Given the sensitivity of those matters, for operational reasons, no further information can be provided at this time.”
What happens next?
The misconduct hearing will continue as planned despite Noble's resignation, with proceedings taking place under former officer provisions. Becky Riggs will remain as Staffordshire Police's acting chief constable while the process continues.
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