Auckland police officer under investigation

  • 11/07/2018
Auckland police officer under investigation
Photo credit: Newshub/ file

A Waitemata Police officer under investigation for allegations that have been described as "deeply concerning".

Police have confirmed a complaint was received about the officer's conduct in late 2017, and an internal employment investigation is underway as well as a separate investigation into any criminal liability.

Waitemata District Commander superintendent Tusha Penny said: "On the face of it, these allegations appear deeply concerning and if found to be proven after a thorough and fair investigation, Police will take appropriate action that would reflect the seriousness of these allegations.

NZME reports the allegations were made from multiple women, including the officer's ex-girlfriend, and relate to unwanted inappropriate behaviour and unwanted attention.

"The public should be assured that we take any allegation of staff misconduct extremely seriously and I give every assurance that these complaints will be fully investigated."

Supt Penny assured the public that police have a robust investigation process in relation to staff complaints about conduct, which the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) has oversight over.

Due to privacy obligations police could not comment further on the details of the investigation.  

"Allegations such as these are taken seriously. It is well known by all our staff what behaviours they are expected to display when they are interacting with the public and the non-negotiable standard that our values will be met," Supt Penny said.

Newshub.