Senior police officer suspended over bullying claims

One of Police Scotland's most senior officers has been suspended over bullying allegations.

BBC Scotland News understands that a number of complaints have been made against Deputy Chief Constable Jane Connors by police officers and civilian staff.

One of three officers holding that rank at Scotland's national force, she is in charge of operational policing and leads its response to organised crime.

The complaints were referred to the Scottish Police Authority (SPA), the body which oversees Police Scotland, because of her seniority.

An SPA spokesperson said: "The Authority's complaints and conduct committee has taken the decision to suspend a senior police officer following receipt of conduct allegations which have been referred to the Police Investigations and Reviews Commissioner (Pirc) for consideration."

Pirc will decide whether to launch a full investigation into the complaints, which would amount to gross misconduct if they were upheld.

Officers under DCC Connors' command have been under significant pressure this year due to a violent gangland feud in central Scotland.

So far 62 people have been arrested as a result of Operation Portaledge, the investigation into the feud, and efforts are underway to trace suspects abroad.

The deputy chief constable's brief also includes Police Scotland's response to violence and women and girls, operational support, major crime, public protection and local policing around the country.

Her profile on Police Scotland's website says she is the force's "organisational lead for change."

DCC Connors joined Police Scotland in 2023 after 30 years at the Metropolitan Police in London.