'Serious allegations' on Brighton police inspector passed to CPS

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said following an investigation, it had evidence that a Brighton-based officer could have committed a criminal offence.

The officer was named by the BBC on its website on Thursday November 9 as Tony Lumb.

The watchdog said the officer was arrested for misconduct in public office in March, following allegations he had engaged in improper relationships with women in Sussex in the course of his duties.

The officer was released from bail in May at the conclusion of his interview under criminal caution, the IPCC said, but today (November 9), it confirmed following the completion of its investigation, it had referred the case to the CPS.

Catherine Hall, IPCC operations manager, said: “These are clearly serious allegations that required an independent investigation. We now have evidence to suggest the officer may have committed a criminal offence and therefore have referred a file to the CPS.

“In addition, the investigation has also found the officer has a case to answer for gross misconduct and we will now be in discussion with Sussex Police regarding any disciplinary hearings.”

The IPCC said a referral to the CPS is made when the watchdog's investigation indicates that a criminal offence may have been committed, but it does not mean that criminal charges will necessarily follow. It is down to the CPS will decide whether charges should be brought.

The watchdog said the police force and the IPCC Operations Manager must decide whether to bring disciplinary proceedings.