Ex-police chief held in stalking probe

Colin Andrews, a former chief superintendent with Humberside Police, was detained on Wednesday in connection with allegations made by former partners who have also complained their allegations were not properly dealt with. He has since been bailed pending further inquiries.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is managing the investigation – being carried out by Durham Police – into the alleged offences and how they were dealt with by the Humberside force.

Mr Andrews, 57, retired last year but returned to the force as a civilian investigator to continue his role leading a major, three-year inquiry into historical abuse allegations at the former Catholic-run St William’s children’s home in Market Weighton, east Yorkshire.

The IPCC involvement follows Mr Andrews’ initial arrest in August after an alleged assault on a man and a woman in west Hull. At the time, he was detained on suspicion of two counts of assault by beating and one of stalking.

In a statement, the IPCC said it had launched the investigation after a referral from Humberside Police.

The inquiry includes allegations relating to relationships with three women.

IPCC Commissioner Cindy Butts said: “Alleged victims of stalking and domestic abuse must be given the confidence that they will be taken seriously and that their reports will be investigated fully.

“I want to assure them that this investigation will thoroughly examine their claims and will ultimately determine whether they were dealt with in an appropriate way by Humberside police.”

Humberside Police, which suspended Mr Andrews after his arrest in August, said it could not comment following the IPCC referral.