Off the force - officer resigns

Hayden Bradley, the Wanganui police officer acquitted of sexual corruption earlier this month, has resigned from the force.

The 31-year-old constable stood trial in the High Court in New Plymouth for allegedly seeking sexual favours from a disqualified female driver he had stopped in Wanganui in February 2012.

After a two-day trial he was found not guilty on one count of corruption and bribery of a police officer, and was said to want to continue working as an officer; subject to an internal investigation.

But yesterday Superintendent Russell Gibson, Central District commander, said that investigation had not yet been completed and would now cease as Bradley had resigned.

"It is clear to me that Mr Bradley accepts his behaviour was inappropriate and goes against police values and ethical standards," Mr Gibson said.

In the immediate aftermath of the trial, Mr Gibson commented that the officer's behaviour had been disappointing and had undermined the integrity of the force.

Yesterday, he said: "I want to take this opportunity to reaffirm my praise to the woman who spoke up and told the Whanganui police about Mr Bradley's conduct. This woman has gone through some very difficult and emotionally testing times but, through this whole process, she has acted with integrity and strength."

Mr Gibson also praised the professionalism of the officers who dealt with the woman's complaint. "I want to reassure the public that the actions of this officer are not a reflection of the New Zealand Police."

The family of the complainant said last night that they were aware of Mr Bradley's resignation, but did not wish to comment.

After the trial, they expressed pride in their daughter for going to the police and were disappointed at the outcome of the case.