Call for investigation into PCC Shaun Wright's conduct

Sheffield Neighbourhood Watch Association calls on the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) to investigate Mr Wright over what it suspects could be misconduct in public office.

Mr Wright, now police and crime commissioner for South Yorkshire, was Rotherham Borough Council’s Cabinet member for children’s services between 2005 and 2010 and has faced repeated calls to resign following the publication of Prof Alexis Jay’s inquiry report, which found an estimated 1,400 children were sexually exploited by men mainly of Pakistani heritage between 1997 and 2013

The SNWA is calling on the IPCC to launch an investigation into the conduct of Mr Wright while he was working in Rotherham.

Sheffield director Wendy Zealand said: “Following the report into Rotherham authority by Prof Alexis Jay and the child safeguarding concerns, we are mortified at the impact these matters are having on our community. 

“This is magnified by the seriousness of the alleged conduct of the members of the Rotherham Borough Council, which includes the serious allegation that the PCC for South Yorkshire, Shaun Wright may have committed misconduct in public office.

“We are distressed that the allegations raise reasonable doubt as to the integrity of Mr Wright as to his current role as PCC.

“To protect the public we request that the IPCC initiate an enquiry into the South Yorkshire PCC, Shaun Wright.”

The group is asking the IPCC to exercise its statutory power and initiate an investigation into this alleged criminality in the public interest.

Mrs Zealand added: “Reasonable doubt undermines the public's trust, which by implication undermines the integrity of the South Yorkshire Police force.”

South Yorkshire Police has already referred its self to the IPCC over the scandal.

Mrs Zealed said: “It is inconceivable that the IPCC can resist further these calls from the Sheffield Neighbourhood Watch to investigate fully the allegations of misconduct in public office.”