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Accusations of Abuse in
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The Press
November 2, 2002
Team will investigate
by Yvonne Martin
Police
are planning to set up a special team to investigate complaints from men who
claim they were abused as boys at a Christchurch Catholic residential school.
Much has happened since Mainlander ran a feature on June 29 on sex-abuse
allegations against brothers at the former
Police are investigating about 30 complaints so far, and the order has logged
more than double that -- 70 -- which it described as"genuine and
serious". The Press understands at least four brothers have been named in
allegations, plus a nightwatchman.
The order has hired retired High Court judge Sir Rodney Gallen to review how it
has handled complaints and advise on future negotiations, including
compensation. It hopes to have the process "well under way" by the
end of February.
Hornby Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Landreth says the police are now entering
the next phase of their investigation, which will involve further inquiries to
corroborate stories and track down other witnesses.
He proposes a team of three or four police be set up to focus on the
"We have received approximately 30 complaints, but we are aware there
could be a lot more and we need people to come forward," says Landreth.
Once completed, the file will go to Crown solicitors for an opinion on possible
prosecutions. With much work still required, a decision is not expected this
year.
Meanwhile,
It is too early to say what form the action will take, but Cameron says
considerable groundwork has been done.
Coincidentally, Sir Rodney investigated allegations of ill-treatment and sex
abuse made by former