The Dominion Post
February 19, 2004
Mallard to gather complaints
by Vernon Small
Complainants to the
commission of inquiry set up after claims of rape and cover-ups by police
officers are being asked to write to State Services Minister Trevor Mallard
till the commission becomes active.
A spokeswoman said the commission would set up contact points, including a postal
address, after terms of reference had been formalised. No date had been set.
Meanwhile, Mr Mallard was gathering written complaints to be passed to the
commissioners, top public servant Dame Margaret Bazley
and High Court judge Bruce Robertson. Prime Minister Helen Clark has urged
anyone with complaints that might point to a "systemic" problem in
the police to come forward as quickly as possible.
Miss Clark said the inquiry would look at the historical rape allegations as
well as the culture of the police. It would also inquire into the police
standards and codes in relation to personal behaviour, including sexual
conduct.
Fresh allegations against police officers have surfaced since it was reported
that Louise Nicholas alleged she was pack-raped in 1986 by former police
officers Bob Schollum and Brad Shipton and
The men have admitted having sex with her but deny rape. Mr Rickards has been
stood down. Police have reopened a criminal investigation into her allegations.
A second senior police officer, Kelvin Powell, was on Saturday stood down from
all duties for the duration of the investigation.
Deputy Commissioner Steve Long said Mr Powell was an "individual of
interest", but would not elaborate.