Otago Daily Times
February 4, 2004

Police face inquiry into rape handling
High Court judge to head commission


Wellington: An independent commission of inquiry with wide-ranging powers and a reopened criminal investigation were announced yesterday as the Government acted on historic rape allegations against three police officers.

Prime Minister Helen Clark said the commission of inquiry, to be headed by a High Court judge, was the strongest option she had and would investigate the way the police handled the original allegations as well as wider issues within the force.

Attorney-general Margaret Wilson said the commission would not decide the guilt or innocence of those facing the allegations, and would not recommend whether there should be prosecutions.

"Those are matters that constitutionally lie with the police, which is why the investigations they are undertaking will take place independently and separately to this inquiry," she said.

Police Commissioner Rob Robinson announced the reopening of a criminal investigation and said one of the men involved, Assistant Commissioner Clint Rickards, had been stood down.

Ms Clark said the police held a critical role in society and public confidence in the force was vital.

"The Government considers it is in the public interest for there to be a wider investigation into the issues being raised around the integrity of the police," she said.

"If what has happened indicates there are some systemic problems, they must be identified and they must, and will, be addressed."

The moves follow allegations by Rotorua woman Louise Nicholas that she was pack-raped in Rotorua in 1986 by three police officers - Mr Rickards and two men who have since left the force, Tauranga city councillor Brad Shipton and Napier car dealer Bob Schollum.

All three have vigorously denied the allegations.

Mrs Nicholas reacted to the Prime Minister's announcement with tears of joy.

"It's happening, it's really happening," she said.

"There's no more sweeping under the carpet. They can hang their broom up now."

One News showed her hugging her husband.

"Words can't express how we're feeling. Thank you New Zealand, and all those people who have helped me through," she said.

Mrs Nicholas alleges her original complaint in 1993 was not properly investigated and that John Dewar, who was a detective inspector at the time, manipulated her to protect his colleagues.

Mr Dewar denies the claim.

Ms Clark said it would take about two weeks to write the terms of reference for the commission of inquiry and appoint its head, who would be a sitting or retired High Court judge.

Ms Wilson said it would have the power to summon witnesses and gather documents.

"I think public concern lies as much in what has been admitted of activities and behaviour which is not criminal - those are issues that have also raised some concern," she said.

"The whole culture and environment within which the police operate on these matters also comes into question."

Ms Clark said she had "enormous confidence in and respect for" Mr Robinson.

"I am confident the police commissioner will leave no stone unturned in his investigation and inquiries," she said.