A former chief constable of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Scott Chilton, retired in April 2026 amid allegations of inappropriate relationships with two junior officers, a disciplinary tribunal heard. Chilton, 52, faces four charges related to these relationships, which include accusations of misconduct and abuse of position.

The tribunal, held in Eastleigh, examined two separate relationships involving officers identified as Officer A and Officer B, both now inspectors. The first relationship, which Chilton denies, allegedly occurred between 2008 and 2012 while he was a married superintendent, and some sexual activity reportedly took place while he was on duty. Officer A stated in interviews that the affair was consensual and involved intercourse on multiple occasions. Chilton is accused of failing to disclose this relationship during his application to become chief constable.

The second relationship, which Chilton acknowledges as a historic relationship between consenting adults, began shortly after he was appointed chief constable in February 2023. He admitted to the relationship with Officer B but denied abusing his position for sexual purposes. However, the tribunal heard that Chilton failed to disclose this relationship and attempted to avoid referral of the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). He also reportedly instructed Officer B to delete messages and refrain from discussing their relationship.

Additional testimony revealed that Chilton made efforts to block an investigation into the affair with Officer A. The probe was initially triggered by disclosures from Officer A to a former detective chief inspector, Roger Wood, who was later found guilty of gross misconduct for unrelated sexual misconduct. Chilton allegedly tried to frustrate this probe, concerned about perceptions of double standards. He is said to have convened a meeting with the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones and other senior officials to prevent the allegations from being referred to the IOPC.

Chilton's lawyer informed the tribunal that he would not attend its proceedings due to medical reasons. In a statement, Chilton admitted to one of the relationships but strongly disputed the other, acknowledging that his conduct fell short of expectations but disputing claims of gross misconduct.

The hearing continues, with the panel expected to deliver its decision shortly. The allegations have raised questions about professional conduct and oversight within the police force during Chilton’s tenure.