The former Chief Officer of Guernsey Police has said he is not surprised that he was cleared by an external investigation into allegations he had lied under oath in court.
The case has been investigated by West Midlands Police, on behalf of the Committee for Home Affairs which is the ‘Appropriate Authority’ when dealing with complaints concerning Guernsey Police or its officers.
West Midlands Police has said there is no case to answer and that no further action is needed.
Home Affairs said that means, that as far as it is concerned, the matter is closed.
Ruari Hardy has said he is “very pleased” that it is now over.
Mr Hardy had served in the police in the UK and Guernsey for forty years before retiring in 2024.
It’s been reiterated that his decision to retire had nothing to do with the allegations made against him.
He’s now said that his “honesty and integrity” has been upheld and he is looking back on his career with pride.
“The outcome of this investigation is not a surprise to me, for I always acted with honesty and integrity throughout my 40-year career in policing,” he said.
“My approach to the matter in question was always based upon facts and defendable decisions, with the safety of this island community at the forefront of my mind. This decision was upheld by the Royal Court in Guernsey, who were very clear that denying access to a firearm’s license was entirely appropriate based on the evidence available.”
It is unusual for Home Affairs to release details relating to complaints made against serving or former police officers. It has said it did in this case because of the media attention the matter attracted.
Mr Hardy has also addressed the level of public interest in this case and in doing so, he has again defended the honour of Guernsey Police.
“Whilst the barrage of inappropriate and unfounded allegations from this complainant have been distressing for me personally, it has been just as upsetting for serving officers and their families to witness,” he said.
“My experience is that BLE is full of passionate and dedicated officers and staff, who are motivated to keep Guernsey safe and secure for the benefit of all islanders in an increasingly complex operating environment.
“I am very pleased that this has now been concluded and that my integrity whilst in office has been upheld. I have great pride in serving as an officer with an unblemished record of service. I would like to thank all those I have had the pleasure of working with over the years for their professional and personal support.”