A former Wellington medical professional has been sentenced to home detention after admitting to a series of sexual offences involving teenage boys.
Police confirmed that Jared Cook was sentenced in the Wellington District Court yesterday to 10 months’ home detention after pleading guilty to charges of indecent acts on boys aged between 12 and 16, making intimate visual recordings, and possessing objectionable material.
The offending occurred over a period of six and a half years while Cook was working as a general practitioner. Police said none of the charges he pleaded guilty to related to conduct at his workplace.
Authorities worked closely with the victims and their families throughout the investigation and prosecution, as well as with the Medical Council of New Zealand, to ensure Cook was held accountable for his actions.
Police paid tribute to the victims who came forward, describing their courage and strength as critical to the successful prosecution. Officers acknowledged that reporting sexual offending can be distressing and difficult, particularly for young victims.
Police reiterated that allegations of sexual offending are treated seriously and that support services are available for victims. They said their priority remains holding offenders to account and ensuring victims are supported throughout the justice process.
