Staffordshire Police Chief Constable Chris Noble has resigned, a day before he was scheduled to appear before a misconduct hearing. Noble, who has led the force since 2021, submitted his resignation to Staffordshire Police Fire and Crime Commissioner Ben Adams on Tuesday.
Noble was suspended from his role in August of the previous year following concerns about his conduct outside of work. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) led the investigation into matters that predated Noble's employment with the force. The watchdog also investigated allegations that Noble shared confidential information without a policing purpose, a referral made in 2024.
At the time of Noble's suspension, Commissioner Ben Adams stated that the decision was a neutral act intended to allow for a thorough and independent investigation, and that it did not indicate guilt. Adams acknowledged the news might be a shock to officers and staff but emphasized the importance of addressing serious allegations consistently and thoroughly.
The IOPC confirmed receiving multiple referrals concerning Noble's behavior outside of his official duties, all of which predated his appointment as Chief Constable. The inquiries were ongoing at the time of his resignation.