Chief constable Nick Gargan told to resign as it was revealed he swapped 'intimate images'

Avon and Somerset chief Nick Gargan was suspended on full pay 15 months ago amid allegations of inappropriate advances towards women. Investigators also uncovered potential data breaches where he allegedly emailed private police information to members of the public. The 48-year-old was cleared of gross misconduct but found guilty of eight misconduct offences at a private hearing last month - but he refused to stepdown and announced a 'phased comeback'. Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens yesterday (weds) announced she had told him to quit his #150,000-a-year post. She said: "Chief Constable Nick Gargan has let down the colleagues he led and the communities he was there to protect. "He abused his position by forwarding confidential emails, interfering with a proper recruitment process and sending, receiving and storing intimate images on his police issue phone. "As the Chief Constable, Nick Gargan should have led by example and demonstrated the highest levels of integrity, values and professional behaviour. "Instead he has shown flawed judgement and been found guilty of eight counts of misconduct including two of discreditable conduct. "From what I have seen and heard, he has lost the confidence of local people, police officers and staff.