Dominion Post
February 21, 2004
Police inquiry terms reveal fourth accused
by Leah Haines
Terms of reference
for the commission of inquiry into claims of police pack rape have been
announced, revealing a previously secret allegation of sexual abuse by a fourth
policeman.
Prime Minister Helen Clark said yesterday that the inquiry would look into the
standards and codes of personal behaviour and sexual conduct of police
officers.
And it would look specifically at the questions raised by allegations of sexual
offending by police.
Rotorua woman Louise Nicholas' allegations that she was pack-raped by Clint
Rickards, now assistant commissioner, and former officers Bob Schollum and Brad
Shipton sparked the inquiry and brought forward more claims against other
officers.
The announcement of the terms of the inquiry has also allowed publication of
details concerning a fourth officer charged with sexually assaulting Mrs
Nicholas in an unrelated case. That officer was acquitted after two mistrials.
Further details of the case are suppressed but questions raised by it will be
looked at in the inquiry.
Inquiry heads Dame Margaret Bazley and Justice Bruce
Robertson will soon announce the dates and venues where the public can appear
at hearings, and outline how others can make submissions.
The inquiry will report to the governor-general by November 1.