Allegation is still a mystery

The ruling comes from the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

The complaint has been under investigation since it was made in June.

A Sussex Police spokesman said this week: “Sussex Police understands the importance of maintaining public confidence in the integrity of any of its officers.

“The Chief Constable has welcomed the independent scrutiny of the IPCC in investigating this allegation from the outset and has provided his full support to the investigation throughout.

“Chief Constable Martin Richards is leading the Force through a major change programme that will modernise the Force as well as make significant savings.

“ The Force will make radical changes to the way it operates - to become more open and accountable to the public, less bureaucratic and will give its officers and staff greater discretion.

“ Sussex Police is investing in the tools they will need to meet the policing challenges of the future, making use of technology that is now available.”

Martin Richards has been Chief Constable of Sussex Police since 2007.

During this time the Force has seen year on year crime reduction - this year crime is down by over five per cent.

He has committed to continue to drive up standards of service and victim care despite the need to save money.

The Force has saved £30m so far against its overall target of £50m by 2015.

In November elections will be taking place for the new role of Sussex Police and Crime Commisssioner.

The Government insists that the new role will give the public a greater sy on how policing is conducted .

The aim, they say, is to bring communities closer to the police and restore trust in the system.