Three police officers to be charged after review of Jevon McSkimming scandal

New Zealand Police is set to prosecute three officers after separate investigations into a review of police information security controls following the Jevon McSkimming scandal.

Two Auckland-based constabulary staff will appear in the Manukau District Court over the coming days.

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

“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.”

Police Minister Mark Mitchell told the Herald he “cannot comment on matters before the court”, but said he supported the actions taken by NZ Police.

“I have been very clear about my expectations on standards and integrity across my portfolios, and I support any actions undertaken by agencies I am responsible for to ensure these expectations are met.”

Anderson acknowledged the “professionalism and commitment” by investigators in the National Integrity Unit.

“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.”

The three police staff remain stood down from duties, while three investigations remain ongoing as part of the rapid review.

Police have investigated 22 cases in this matter, Anderson said.

Twelve cases have been resolved through either disciplinary action or performance management.

Four people have resigned during the process.

When contacted by the Herald, the Police Association said it “cannot comment at this time, as it is now an employment matter and the association will likely be representing these members”.

It comes after McSkimming, who served as Deputy Police Commissioner from 2020 until his resignation last year, was convicted for possessing child sexual exploitation and bestiality material, including on his work devices.

The investigation into McSkimming prompted a “rapid review” of police’s information security (Infosec) controls.