Chief Constable Will Kerr Under Investigation for Sexual Offences in Northern Ireland

Kerr, who was a police officer in Northern Ireland for 27 years before leaving in 2018, has strenuously denied any allegations of criminality.

The Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland launched a criminal investigation into Kerr on 16 June, following serious allegations of sexual offences.

In response to the allegations, Kerr stated that he would cooperate with the investigation and hoped that it would be expedited without delay.

Kerr's current role as Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police is subject to a separate investigation by the IOPC over allegations of misconduct.

The IOPC has stated that it will consider whether Kerr may have breached police professional standards relating to the serious criminal allegations currently under investigation by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland.

The investigation will also consider whether inaccurate information may have been provided as part of a previous vetting process.

Kerr has been suspended from his role in Devon and Cornwall by the police and crime commissioner, following the referral of the matter by the Devon and Cornwall police.

Kerr served with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and its predecessor, the Royal Ulster Constabulary, rising to the rank of assistant chief constable before leaving to join Police Scotland, where he became deputy chief constable.

The PSNI is aware of the criminal investigation and will support the Police Ombudsman as required.

The nature of the allegations against Kerr and any early investigative actions remain confidential.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland stated that as the allegations did not relate to Kerr's time at that force, it would be inappropriate for them to comment.

Kerr has been widely recognized for his contributions to policing, including being appointed an OBE in 2015 and receiving the King's Police Medal in the 2023 New Year Honours.

However, the ongoing investigations into his conduct have raised concerns about his fitness to serve as a police officer.

It is important to note that