One News
August 27 2004

Police rape case delayed

The commission of inquiry into the handling of rape complaints against police officers has been put on hold at least till November because of fears it might interfere with criminal cases.

Earlier this month the commissioners, Justice Bruce Robertson and Dame Margaret Bazley, convened to discuss whether police should have name suppression and whether evidence should be heard in private.

They have decided there will be no automatic suppression and they will hear all evidence in public.

But they have also found that if they hear evidence while criminal charges are pending, they could endanger the right of any accused to a fair trial.

The commissioners have put the inquiry on hold till November, while the police provide more details about any charges being laid.

Attorney General, Margaret Wilson says the delay is not unexpected.

Wilson, says the Commission was never meant to determine guilt or innocence.

She concedes if there are court cases to be heard, the process could take years.