Police stand by constable's bravery award

Police say they have no intention of revoking a bravery commendation awarded to an officer now found to have used excessive force in arresting a man.

Constable Terrence Hunt was yesterday found to have used excessive force in arresting West Coast man Johnny Menzies, and having subsequently fabricated evidence in order to prosecute him.

Mr Hunt was awarded a superintendent's commendation for his role in the arrest.

Tasman district police commander Superintendent Grant O'Fee said in spite of yesterday's finding he stood by that acknowledgment.

"I gave him a commendation for showing resolve in the face of an extremely difficult situation. I gave it to him because I felt that it was deserved then, as I do now. I certainly won't be revoking it."

Mr O'Fee had been told by one of his most respected former detectives that Mr Hunt's account did not tally with the evidence.

- NZPA