Following questions from RNZ after his court appearance, Corrections acting deputy chief executive of communities, partnerships and pathways Lynette Cave said Corrections took any allegation involving sexual or indecent assault “extremely seriously”.
Cave confirmed that Corrections’ integrity team had received “initial information” regarding the matter from police on January 5 and had provided information to assist with their investigation.
“Regrettably, the staff member’s regional managers were not made aware of this. The integrity team acknowledge there was a missed opportunity in informing regional management and improved processes are being implemented to support clearer and more consistent notification.”
Cave said Corrections expected the “utmost professionalism from our employees”.
“Corrections employs approximately 11,000 staff, and the overwhelming majority of our people act with integrity, honesty and professionalism. When staff do not meet the standards required of them, we take action, including terminating their employment.”
A Corrections spokesperson confirmed they had been notified a staff member had died. They directed further questions on the death to police.
In a statement to RNZ, Mitchell said he was always “extremely concerned” about any allegation of sexual offending by a staff member.
“I expect Corrections’ staff to always obey the law and act with integrity.
“The integrity team’s decision to not immediately notify managers of these allegations was unacceptable. It is my clear expectation that any allegation of serious wrongdoing, especially sexual offending by a staff member, is immediately escalated to the relevant manager to ensure all appropriate action is taken.”
Mitchell said he had been advised that Corrections was taking steps to improve how they notify regional managers of such allegations.
A police spokesperson confirmed police received a report relating to the matter in December last year.
As the matter was before the court, they were unable to provide further comment.
- RNZ
