CHIEF Constable Paul Whitehouse will fight his suspension from Sussex Police.

The chief, said to be "shocked and saddened", intends to contest the decision at the Sussex Police Authority meeting on March 31.

One friend said: "He will fight it. But, sadly, even if he is reinstated the vote was, in effect, one of no confidence. He is away on holiday now and I just hope he doesn't decide ultimately to resign."

Mr Whitehouse is accused of misleading the public over the shooting of an unarmed man, James Ashley, during a police raid in Hastings last year.

Police authority member Dr James Walsh, a supporter of Mr Whitehouse, said: "The Chief has not been found guilty of anything and he will have an opportunity to defend himself."

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