The Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police, Chris Noble, has resigned ahead of a gross misconduct hearing regarding his behaviour. Mr Noble submitted his resignation on Tuesday to Ben Adams, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire.
Mr Noble was suspended in August 2025 following inquiries by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The watchdog confirmed in March 2026 that it had initiated two additional investigations concerning his conduct.
The misconduct hearing commenced on Wednesday morning in Mr Noble's absence. An IOPC spokesperson previously stated that Mr Noble had been notified he was under investigation for potential gross misconduct, considering if he may have breached police professional standards related to discreditable conduct, duties, and responsibilities.
The IOPC has stated that the panel chair has directed that no additional information regarding the allegations can be released at this time. The IOPC also confirmed it is continuing to investigate other allegations relating to Mr Noble, but no further information can be provided due to the sensitivity of those matters.