SFO closes investigation into spy firm Thompson & Clark

Friday, 9 August 2019

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has closed its investigation relating to spy firm Thompson & Clark Investigations Limited.

SFO director Julie Read said in a statement it had determined the 'high evidential standard' for laying criminal charges had not been met.

The Ministry of Primary Industries referred the matter to the SFO last year after finding that official information had been inappropriately shared with Thompson & Clark Investigations.  

The SFO investigation focused on whether official information had been used in a corrupt way.

**READ MORE:

* Thompson & Clark, a preferred security and surveillance firm, dumped from Government work

* Rotten to the core: The chilling truth revealed by the SSC report

* Use of private investigators exposes carelessness about role of the government

* Public service bosses ignored warnings about Thompson & Clark for years**

The security firm was on an all-of-Government procurement panel, making them a pre-approved provider of protective security.

But a Government inquiry has censured a number of agencies for using external security consultants.

Their report found earthquake victims were potentially illegally recorded at a private meeting.

Public servants were also moonlighting for Thompson & Clark and passing on sensitive Government data.

A Police investigation into a complaint by the State Services Commissioner relating to Thompson and Clark Investigations was concluded earlier this year.

But was delayed after a top cop 'forgot' to progress it. In March Police Deputy Commissioner National Operations Mike Clement admitted to Stuff the inquiry hadn't progressed.

In May police also found security firm Thompson & Clark's spying for Government insurer Southern Response did not break the law.