Breaking news: Ann Hall chief of finance for Cleveland police has been suspended for abusing public funds.

THE most senior member of police staff with Cleveland Police has been suspended following allegations of misuse of public funds.

Assistant Chief Officer Ann Hall, who is responsible for finance and commissioning, is the subject of an allegation that unauthorised payments amounting to thousands of pounds have been made to an executive coaching company.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating the allegation.

The allegation was referred to the IPCC by Cleveland Police and an independent investigation has begun.

In a statement the force said today: “Cleveland Police has confirmed today it has suspended Assistant Chief Officer (Finance and Commissioning), Ann Hall.

“It follows an allegation of potential misconduct relating to the misuse of public funds between July 2010 and October 2011.

“This matter was referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) last week and it is independently investigating the allegation.

“The decision was taken to suspend Mrs Hall today from her post as Assistant Chief Officer (Finance and Commissioning).

“It should be emphasised that suspension is a neutral act and it should not be inferred from the decision to suspend that any potential misconduct matters have been proven.

“In addition and separate to the IPCC enquiry, the Force is undertaking an investigation via an independent investigator into matters referred to Cleveland Police by Operation Sacristy concerning ACO Hall.

“The focus of the Force will remain on operational policing and protecting and serving the communities of Cleveland.”

IPCC Commissioner Cindy Butts said: “Any allegations of misuse of public funds is serious and must be investigated.

“Given the recent history of Cleveland Police and the investigations into former Chief Constable Sean Price and his deputy Derek Bonnard I can appreciate that news of this investigation may cause some concern among the public.

“I can assure them this investigation will be thorough and conducted as quickly as possible.”

News published on: http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/2013/02/28/breaking-cleveland-police-s-finance-chief-ann-hall-suspended-84229-32900403/