Leicestershire PCC Misconduct Hearing about Rupert Matthews Proceeded Privately Amid "Disappointing" Leaks

Leicestershire PCC Misconduct Hearing about Rupert Matthews Proceeded Privately Amid "Disappointing" Leaks 

By Local Democracy Reporter for Rutland.

A high-profile hearing concerning allegations of misconduct against Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Rupert Matthews, took place behind closed doors today. The proceedings were marked by tension after confidential documents were leaked to the media, prompting a stern rebuke from committee leaders.

The core of the complaint centers on a request allegedly made by Mr. Matthews to a serving Leicestershire Police officer. It is claimed that the PCC asked the officer to help arrange a photograph with a horse to be used in election campaign material.

While the PCC’s office acknowledges that Mr. Matthews met the officer on several occasions for "public engagement purposes," they have strongly pushed back against the narrative of the photo op. In a somewhat unusual defense, a spokesperson noted that Mr. Matthews is "extremely frightened of horses" and would never choose to work with them, adding that this fear has been a recurring point of humor during his public events.

The meeting, held on Wednesday, January 21, by the Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland Police Crime Panel’s complaints subcommittee, was strictly private. This decision sparked significant debate regarding the accountability of elected officials.

Critics and media outlets argued that as an elected official, Mr. Matthews should be scrutinised in public to maintain constituent trust.

Leicestershire County Council denied requests to open the hearing, citing the need to protect the integrity of the "informal resolution process."

Councillor Les Phillimore, chairman of the committee, opened the session by addressing the fact that confidential papers had reached the press before the hearing began. He described the situation as "extremely disappointing," stating:

"It undermines the individual's privacy and the integrity of the informal resolution process."

The timeline of the investigation dates back to September 2025, when the complaint was first referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The referral included allegations of Intentionally encouraging or assisting an offence and Misconduct in public office.

However, after a formal assessment, the IOPC returned the case to the local Panel. A spokesperson for the watchdog confirmed that they did not find evidence to indicate that a criminal offence had been committed, leaving the matter to be handled as a local conduct issue rather than a criminal one.

As of now, the outcome of Wednesday’s private meeting remains unknown. The subcommittee’s role is to determine if the PCC’s conduct fell below the expected standards and what "informal resolution" such as an apology or a change in protocol might be required.

Because the meeting was held in private, the public may have to wait for an official statement from the Police and Crime Panel to learn how the matter was resolved.