A former Staffordshire Police Chief Constable committed "gross misconduct" and breached standards, a panel has found.

Chris Noble would have been dismissed from the top job, had he not resigned on the day before the misconduct hearing began this week, the panel ruled.

Reporting restrictions mean the Local Democracy Reporting Service is unable to disclose specific details of the allegations against Mr Noble. But the facts alleged were found to be proven and it was concluded that Mr Noble had breached standards of professional behaviour to the level of gross misconduct.

The two-day hearing at Yarnfield Park Conference Centre concluded on Thursday (July 30). Mr Noble was absent from the hearing on both days.

Mr Noble was appointed Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police in 2021. He tendered his resignation on Tuesday (July 28).

Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime Ben Adams said on Wednesday (July 29): "I can confirm that I received Chief Constable Chris Noble's resignation, which I have accepted with immediate effect.

"Becky Riggs will remain as Staffordshire Police's Acting Chief Constable."

A Staffordshire Police spokesperson said: "We acknowledge the findings of the gross misconduct hearing of former Chief Constable Chris Noble, which was led by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Ben Adams as the appropriate authority. Staffordshire Police had no involvement in the hearing.

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"The panel found that Chris Noble would have been dismissed had he not resigned for breaching the standards of Police professional behaviour to the level of gross misconduct.

"The chair of the panel has directed that reporting restrictions have been put place in relation to the content of the hearing. Therefore, it would be inappropriate to make any further comments on the outcome.

"Acting Chief Constable Becky Riggs will continue in her role leading the force. Our focus will remain on responding to emergencies, investigating crime and supporting victims."