Newstalk ZB
February 2, 2004
Status of top cop on leave reviewed
The status of
It comes as an inquiry begins into the handling of rape allegations made by Louise
Nicholas following an incident in 1986 when she was 18.
Ms Nicholas alleges she was raped by three officers, including
Inquiries seven years later cleared the men but Ms Nicholas claims there has
been a cover-up, and that she was manipulated to protect her attackers.
Police commissioner Rob Robinson has launched an investigation, and says he
will also review the status of Mr Rickards.
Mr Rickards has offered to take three weeks leave to ensure impartiality in the
review and promises to fully cooperate, but strongly denies the allegations.
He says he expects to return to work as normal after the latest inquiry.
The two other men accused of the rape also deny the allegations.