Allegations of Sexual Abuse
	Police Rape Allegations - Main Index Page 15 - Trial Verdict 2006
	One News April 1 2006 Rape case "police persecution" The brother of one of the former police officers acquitted of sex charges says the case amounted to little more than police persecution. Assistant Commissioner Clint Rickards, Bob Schollum and Brad Shipton have all been found not guilty of sex charges involving Louise Nicholas that date back two decades.  Shipton's brother Greg Shipton says he believes the case against the three men was politically motivated, and shouldn't go unchallenged. He says he wants a long hard look at how taxpayers' money was used in the case.  But Deputy police commissioner Lyn Provost is defending the proseuction, saying the team that investigated the case discharged their duty in exemplary  fashion.  One News reporter John Stewart says there was an enormous reaction from the public gallery after the three men were acquitted on all 20 charges of rape, sexual violation and indecent assault. He says there was much crying from the wives and family of the three men and as the officers stood in the dock "the tears were rolling down their cheeks, their faces contorted with crying". It was such an emotional moment that Stewart says the judge had to clear the court because he still had to discuss suppression issues with council. Nicholas left the court immediately after the verdict and would not comment. Emerging from the court, Rickards says the last two-and-a-half years have been torture for him and his family. He says the whole ordeal has been a nightmare. Rickards thanked his family for its support and says he is pleased justice had prevailed. His lawyer, John Haigh QC, said the matter of Rickard's employment would be discussed with the police at a later date. Deputy police commissioner Lyn Provost says this is not a process that can be rushed as there are many factors involved. She says the Operation Austin team which investigated Rickards and the former officers did so according to the highest standards of professionalism. An Auckland employment law specialist says it may be extremely difficult for Rickards to return to work, despite the acquittal.  Jane Latimer says it is legally possible for Rickards to be re-instated, but re-entry to the police force would be difficult, especially after such a long absence. She also says there will be strong feelings about Rickards' position, which may make his re-entry to the police force difficult.