“While there was no evidence of collusion between officers in this respect, the IPCA has nevertheless found serious misconduct by a number of very senior officers and other senior Police employees during 2023 and early 2024 that has undermined the integrity of the organisation as a whole.”
The report found then-Commissioner Coster “attempted to influence the nature and extent of the investigation” and its timeframe.
The IPCA also said Coster “failed to disclose to the Public Service Commission his knowledge of Deputy McSkimming’s relationship”.
Coster has now agreed to go on leave from his current role as chief executive of the Social Investment Agency.
Govt installs Inspector-General of Police
The IPCA raised questions regarding whether there is sufficient independent oversight of Police to prevent these issues happening again.
In response, the Government says it is taking steps to establish the “strongest possible oversight” of Police.
Public Service Minister Judith Collins called the IPCA findings “extremely concerning and disappointing”.
“It has found serious issues within the former Police executive, which is why the Government is acting decisively to install the strongest statutory oversight mechanism available to it – an Inspector-General of Police.”
Police Minister Mark Mitchell said he expects Police to uphold the highest levels of integrity, transparency and accountability.
“The report highlights significant flaws in the decision-making, judgment and actions of a group of individuals, including those at the top of the previous Police executive. Their actions have raised serious concerns about integrity and culture within the then executive,” he said.
“At the centre of this is a woman who has been let down by the former Police executive and the system. I cannot express how frustrated and disappointed I have been since becoming aware of the situation.”
‘Inexcusable conduct’ – Richard Chambers
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers said the IPCA report shows “inexcusable conduct” by former senior leaders of NZ Police.
“The events and findings set out in the IPCA report made for appalling reading and showed a total lack of leadership and integrity at the highest levels of Police,” he said in a statement after its release.
“I was shocked by the report’s account of departures in 2023 and 2024 from the expected processes for dealing both with sexual assault complaints and with investigations into police officers.
“The usual integrity checks and balances were bypassed, there was interference from the highest levels, and the ambitions of a senior police officer were put above the interests of a vulnerable woman.”
Chambers apologised to the woman involved, and called the events detailed in the report a “kick in the guts” for police staff.
“The actions and attitudes set out in the report are inexcusable and show a disrespect and disregard for what NZ Police stands for.”
Chambers says he is carrying out these actions in response:
- Appointed an independent King’s Counsel to undertake employment investigations where required;
- Undertaking an extensive refresh of the Police Executive and wider leadership;
- Revising the Police Code of Conduct, aimed at strengthening accountability;
- Ordered an immediate uplift to the Police National Integrity Unit, adding six investigators;
- Invited the Public Service Commission to conduct a Performance Improvement Review into NZ Police.
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