Newstalk ZB
February 2, 2004

Overseas judge wanted after rape allegations

Peter Williams QC wants an independent overseas judge brought in to investigate allegations that police covered up a rape accusation.

Louise Nicholas alleges she was raped by Assistant Commissioner Clint Rickards and two other officers in 1986.

A police investigation in the 1990s found that the allegations could not be proved, but Mrs Nicholas claims she was manipulated to protect her attackers.

Mr Williams acknowledges that police internal inquiries can be very tough, but he says that if there are any accusations of corruption, Police Minister George Hawkins cannot be involved.

He says that if corruption is proved, Mr Hawkins must resign.