Three cops face child exploitation material charges

Police are moving to prosecute three staff members following separate investigations arising from a rapid review of Police information security controls.

“Two Auckland-based constabulary staff will appear in the Manukau District Court over the coming days”, said Deputy Commissioner Tim Anderson.

“Each of the officers is being charged with multiple counts of possessing an objectionable publication, under the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act.

“A third officer will be appearing at a court in the Wellington region at a later date.

“Prosecution of our own staff is a serious but important step to take as it recognises the significance of the alleged offending that has been identified.

“I would like to acknowledge the professionalism and commitment by our investigators in the National Integrity Unit for their work to this point.

“Our investigations have involved the analysis of a significant volume of web activity.

“It is important we now let these matters progress to the court process, which limits the level of information we can provide at this point.

“These three Police staff remain stood down from duties. Meanwhile, three investigations remain ongoing as part of the rapid review.

“Police have investigated 22 cases in this matter. Twelve cases have been resolved through either disciplinary action or performance management.

“Four people have resigned during this process.”