A POLICE and Crime Commissioner is remaining steadfast in his refusal to quit his role as details of more complaints are made about his behaviour.

Steve Turner, who is being investigated over a historic sexual offence claim says he is now facing a 'ridiculous' allegation that he punched someone in a pub.

The Conservative PCC for Cleveland said has repeatedly refused calls for him to resign or temporarily stand aside as political rivals turn up the pressure on him.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed it is now looking into three fresh allegations – one of which the PCC said related to an anonymous claim he punched someone in a pub.

The historic sexual assault allegation, dating back to the 1980s, is being investigated by another force for the IOPC.

Another allegation relates to claims he failed to sufficiently investigate a complaint made by a senior member of staff at Cleveland Police.

And the IOPC rejected a separate theft allegation earlier this year due to a lack of evidence and has said Turner did not break the rules by failing to declare his caution when he stood for office.

Addressing one of the latest allegations he posted on a Facebook branding the accusation as 'ridiculous'.

He said: “Anyone who knows me will know how ridiculous such an accusation is so once again. I am confident there is no truth in it and I will be cleared of the whole thing.

“I am currently pursuing complaints against the press and some individuals and can categorically state that no amount of malicious and false allegations will stop me from making a positive difference for the public, Cleveland Police and victims locally as the democratically elected PCC.”

An IOPC spokesman said the body must determine if allegations that a PCC may have committed an offence should be criminally investigated.

He said: “As set out in legislation, we only investigate serious complaints or conduct matters, specifically those involving criminal allegations, involving PCCs and their deputies.

“We are assessing three referrals from the Cleveland Police and Crime Panel to determine what further action may be required from us.”

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated Teesside Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054