The Authority oversaw a Police investigation into the actions of a Counties Manukau sergeant who provided a character reference to a convicted sex offender for use in their court hearing. The reference was intended to support the offender in their bail application to go overseas for a sports tournament. While the character reference was sent to the offender’s lawyer, it was not required to be submitted to the Court as there were no bail restrictions in place restricting travel.
The investigation found the officer was providing the character reference in his capacity as a private citizen but sent it from their Police email account and identified themself as a sergeant, incorrectly and inappropriately implying the views expressed were those of New Zealand Police. In the letter, the sergeant promised to supervise the offender while they were away, implying they would do so as a member of Police, not a private citizen.
Police determined the sergeant had breached policy and the Code of Conduct and undertook an employment process to address these breaches.
The Authority is satisfied with Police's investigation and the outcome they reached.
IPCA: 24-24238