Prison boss suspended

Dave East, the regional manager for Wellington prisons, was suspended yesterday for the mismanagement of Rimutaka Prison.

The Corrections Department would not comment on his case while he is being investigated.

It is understood allegations against him include bullying, not sufficiently following up employment matters and issues around the employment of his family members - including wife Denise and up to three of his children - at Rimutaka.

Eleven staff from the prison have already been suspended - four for corruption - and more are expected as the corruption inquiry continues.

The department has said Mr East is not accused of corruption.