A senior police officer facing a bullying investigation is threatening legal action against police watchdogs, alleging the probe is unlawful and that she has been denied crucial evidence to prepare her defense. Deputy Chief Constable Jane Connors, who earns £230,580 annually, has had her legal team notify the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) and the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) of their intent to launch a judicial review.
Connors' legal representatives claim that key documents and details of the allegations have been withheld, preventing them from adequately preparing her defense. They are demanding disclosure of this information, warning that a judicial review will be initiated to challenge the lawfulness of the investigation if it is not provided.
This development follows a previous threat of a separate judicial review by Connors in April against her suspension, which was subsequently lifted. She is now working remotely for the London-based National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), coordinating business cases for specialist services across England and Wales, while remaining on Police Scotland's payroll but unable to work directly for the force due to the ongoing Pirc inquiry.
A source close to the dispute suggested that Connors believes access to her documentation and emails would help exonerate her and prove damaging to those involved in the complaints. Another source indicated that the lack of specific details about the claims against her makes it impossible for her to respond to the allegations, arguing that the investigation violates principles of natural justice.
Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Stephen Kerr described the situation as a "Kafkaesque mess" and called for transparency. He stated that if the allegations are serious enough for an investigation, they must be handled properly, and denying an officer the information needed for their defense turns due process into a "farce." Kerr urged SNP ministers to demand answers and ensure Scotland's police force operates with the expected transparency and professionalism.
A Pirc spokesman confirmed that they received a referral from the SPA on December 8, 2025, regarding the conduct of a senior officer and that their report will be issued in due course. The SPA has declined to comment on complaint and conduct matters, and the NPCC has also been approached for comment. In May, Justice Secretary Neil Gray had commented that public confidence in policing was being "eroded" by perceptions of preferential treatment for senior officers accused of misconduct.