Todd Lifestyle 'Damaged Reputation Of British Policing'

A report investigating the death of Greater Manchester Police chief Michael Todd has concluded his personal life has damaged the reputation of British policing.

The report found there was "significant potential for compromise" to his position as chief constable, however extra-marital affairs he conducted did not impact on his ability to do the job.

The inquiry by West Midlands chief Sir Paul Scott-Lee investigated the revelations about the private life of the former chief constable and whether the 50-year-old's conduct had adversely affected his duties

Details of the married father-of-three's affairs came to light after he was found frozen to death in the snow, on Mount Snowdon, last March.

The inquest heard that he had been confronted by his wife about an extra-marital affair.

Sir Paul's report stated there was "no evidence that these relationships adversely affected the day to day discharge of his duties as chief constable".

Adding: "The personal lifestyle of Michael Todd brought with it significant potential for compromise to him as chief constable.

"However, this examination has found no evidence that he was compromised in this role."

But the report did, go on to state that his lifestyle "not only affected his family but also adversely impacted upon the reputation of the Police Service".

Todd sent text messages to unnamed persons saying he was in "a dark place" and expressing a wish to kill himself in the days leading to his death.

A coroner ruled the death was due to exposure when Mr Todd’s state of mind was affected by alcohol, a sleeping drug and confusion.

GMP's new chief constable, Peter Fahy, said: "The Force now needs to move on and concentrate on further improving the service we provide to the people of Greater Manchester."

(GK/JM)