Newstalk ZB
February 15, 2004

Powell loses Olympic liaison job

Waikato commander stood down after being named as an individual of interest to rape inquiry has lost job with Olympic team

Superintendent Kelvin Powell has lost his job as the police liaison for the New Zealand Olympic team.

It comes after he was stood down as Waikato District Commander last night.

That move was made when Superintendent Powell was named as an 'individual of interest' in the investigation into police pack rape allegations against three other men.

The inquiry team won't spell out why it is interested in Superintendent Powell.

Inspector Gary Allcock will take over the Olympic team's security.

He has held similar posts at the Sydney Olympics and the Manchester Commonwealth Games.

A police statement says it is no longer appropriate for Superintendent Powell to fulfil the role.

Hamilton's mayor is shocked to discover his region's police commander has been stood down.

David Braithwaite says he was surprised but pleased by the quick action of the police.

He says he is satisfied what they are doing will restore public faith in the force.