Bettison resignation confirmed
West Yorkshire Police confirmed today that Sir Norman Bettison has resigned from his position as chief constable after criticism of his role following the Hillsborough disaster.
Bettison is currently being investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Commission for his actions as part of the South Yorkshire police force after the tragedy in 1989.
The release of the Hillsborough Independent Panel report in September increased pressure on the former Merseyside chief constable, who had helped gather evidence for the public inquiry into the disaster.
Then on Monday, allegations were made in parliament by Maria Eagle MP that Bettison played a significant role in the police cover-up, something the 56-year-old has strenuously denied.
The news was welcomed by Margaret Aspinall and Trevor Hicks of the Hillsborough Family Support Group, with the former stating that she was 'absolutely delighted' by Bettison's resignation.
Bettison had been due to retire in March 2013 but explained in a statement that: "The Police Authority, and some of the candidates in the forthcoming PCC elections, have made it clear that they wish me to go sooner."
In their own statement, the IPCC said: "Retirement or resignation does not prevent criminal prosecution should the investigation identify criminal offences, including misconduct in a public office."