Probe into officer’s behaviour

An Auckland police officer under investigation following allegations from multiple women of inappropriate behaviour and unwanted attention will not face criminal charges.

But he has been suspended for months as police bosses carry out an internal investigation into the allegations.

In July, the Herald reported that the officer based in the Waitemata¯ Police District was handed a suspension notice after numerous accusations were levelled at him.

Police initially started investigating the officer after his ex-girlfriend complained he had been harassing her using a cellphone.

Subsequently, allegations of inappropriate behaviour with other women he made contact with while on duty came to light.The officer was put on restricted duties when the first allegation was made.

He remains stood active duty.

Waitemata¯ District Commander Superintendent Tusha Penny confirmed this week that the officer would not face criminal charges.

“Since receiving a complaint in late 2017, police have undertaken an internal employment investigation, as well as a separate investigation to determine whether there is any criminal liability,” she said.

“The employment investigation remains ongoing and we are unable to comment further about this due to privacy obligations.

“The investigation to determine whether there is any criminal liability has been completed, and after seeking an independent legal opinion, no charges are pending as a result of this investigation.”

The Herald on Sundayhas chosen not to name the officer to protect his ex-girlfriend’s privacy. down from