Change to top police ranks
OUR $1M MISSING COPS
THE Gold Coast police leadership is undergoing a massive shake-up as the Crime and Corruption Commission struggles to find the resources for a widening investigation.
Gold Coast Chief Superintendent Terry Borland, on extended leave, appears unlikely to return to work any time soon on the Glitter Strip.
His Logan counterpart Marty Mickelson arrived yesterday and is expected to provide stability to senior ranks, staying at least until the Commonwealth Games in April.
The Bulletin understands senior police met in private to discuss resolving a subsidised leasing deal which enabled Supt Borland to rent a $1.4 million riverfront cottage which remains empty.
Chief Supt Mickelson will be supported by Supt Craig Hanlon and Acting Supt David Cuskelly.
Supt Michelle Stenner, who is facing three counts of perjury and one count of misconduct, has been suspended.
It is understood Supt Stenner’s husband Mick Stenner, who heads up the bikie-busting Gold Coast Rapid Action and Patrols unit, will be transferred to Brisbane. Inspector Stenner, who is not facing any charges, is on carer’s leave.
Supt Hanlon is the only officer remaining from the original team under Assistant Commissioner Brian Codd which took control of the Coast in late 2015.
A Bulletin report last week revealed the CCC investigation had been widened to consider complaints about bullying and staff promotions including allegations that a signature was Saturday’s Bulletin
forged to ensure appointment of a preferred staff member.
An insider close to the investigation said the CCC was concerned because “they reckon they do not have enough staff to do the job”.
The CCC is busy having taken control of a separate investigation into Assistant Commissioner Mike Condon following a complaint lodged about alleged misconduct allegations relating to the Daniel Morcombe inquest.
In July, CCC chair Alan MacSporran denied budget cuts would impact on operational areas, but Opposition justice spokesman Ian Walker raised concerns about the timing of the cuts by the Palaszczuk Government.
Commissioner Ian Stewart yesterday said: “This has been a difficult period for officers and staff of the Gold Coast District and I don’t shy away from acknowledging that.
“Today’s announcement is about giving certainty to the region and provides Assistant Commissioner Brian Codd with the support he needs to continue providing strong leadership for the men and women of the entire South Eastern Region.”