Chief Constable Nick Adderley’s Medal Controversy Deepens
Northamptonshire Chief Constable Nick Adderley is facing increasing pressure to resign following revelations that he wore a Falklands War medal despite being only 15 years old at the time of the conflict.
New images have emerged that cast doubt on his explanation, leading to an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Allegations of Misrepresentation
Previously, Chief Constable Adderley had been described in press releases and interviews as a Falklands veteran with a decade of experience in the Navy.
However, this claim was debunked, as he was underage during the Falklands War. In response, Adderley stated that he received the South Atlantic Medal from his older brother when he emigrated to Australia.
He also mentioned another medal related to Northern Ireland service, which he said was given to him by another sibling.
Stolen Valor Allegations Persist
The controversy surrounding Chief Constable Adderley, often referred to as “stolen valor,” has not subsided.
Recent photos appear to show Adderley’s brother, Rick, wearing the same medal in Australia in 2020—seven years after Adderley claimed to have received it.
These developments have led Falklands veteran Rear Admiral Chris Parry to brand the police chief as a “complete fraud.”
Adderley’s Response and IOPC Investigation
Initially, Chief Constable Adderley defended himself, stating that he proudly wore medals awarded to his brothers.
However, in light of the controversy, he changed the side of his chest where these medals are worn. The IOPC is now investigating allegations of potential misrepresentation of his military service and communications with the commissioner.
This investigation may result in a misconduct hearing.
Stolen Valor Clarification
It is important to note that in the UK, it is not illegal for individuals to wear medals they were not awarded.
However, wearing a military medal without permission is an offense, according to the UK Parliament’s briefing on Stolen Valor.
Chief Constable Adderley enlisted in the Navy in 1984, two years after the Falklands War ended, and had been in the cadets from the age of 15.
Discrepancies in Service Claims
Reports suggest that Adderley initially served in the Navy from 1984 to 1986 and was an enlisted sailor, not an officer.
Contrary to this, a Northamptonshire Police press release and an article on Police Oracle claimed he served for ten years in the Navy, including during the Falklands War.
These claims have raised questions about the accuracy of his military service record.
Eyewitness Accounts
Robert Gallagher MBE, a former colleague of Adderley, recalled that Adderley told him he served on an aircraft carrier during the Falklands War. Mr. Gallagher noticed the medal at a ceremony in 2014 but claims that Adderley did not attribute it to his brother at the time.
Eyewitness accounts like this have added to the controversy surrounding the police chief.
IOPC Inquiry Initiated
The IOPC launched its inquiry following a tip-off from the local Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner.
This is not the first time Chief Constable Adderley has faced scrutiny; he was previously referred to the IOPC in connection with the Harry Dunn case.
Adderley’s controversial comments regarding police checks on shopping during the Covid lockdown also garnered public attention.
Conclusion and Further Developments
The controversy surrounding Chief Constable Nick Adderley’s wearing of medals he did not earn continues to unfold.
The investigation by the IOPC will likely shed more light on these allegations, and the outcome may have significant consequences for his career in law enforcement.
Read More On The Topic On TDPel Media
