Police are reviewing their child protection and sexual assault investigation processes after reopening 54 cases linked to concerns over the handling of files by Detective Inspector Kevan Verry, including historical allegations of child sexual abuse.
State-funded media reported today that Operation Hark is reinvestigating 40 child protection cases, 12 adult sexual assault cases and two other matters, while Police have established a joint assurance panel with Oranga Tamariki and an independent advisory group to oversee the reviews.
Assistant Commissioner Tusha Penny said the investigation would be thorough and transparent, confirming some cases involved allegations of physical and sexual offending against children.
Oranga Tamariki has begun reviewing its involvement in the affected cases, while Children’s Commissioner Claire Achmad and Chief Victims Advisor Ruth Money said the allegations raise serious concerns that some children may have remained at risk after complaints were closed without prosecution.
