Newstalk ZB
April 4, 2004

Waikato police boss stood down over rape complaint


Reason for standing down of Waikato commander Kelvin Powell disclosed- former policewoman says he raped her

There is confirmation that another top police officer faces an allegation of rape.

Waikato district commander Kelvin Powell was stood down two months ago, but at the time no reason was given.

It has now been disclosed a former policewoman has claimed she was raped by Mr Powell during the 1980s.

She did not speak up at the time because of fears it would ruin her career.

A spokesman for the police commissioner, Michael Player, confirms a complainant has come forward in conjunction with the investigation into allegations against other senior officers.

Mr Player says this new investigation is being carried out by the same team looking into Louise Nicholas's allegations.

Kelvin Powell was to have been security chief for the New Zealand Olympic team in Athens.

Michael Player says Mr Powell is no longer responsible for Athens security.