‘Atrocious on Every Level’: Report Exposes Senior Police Failings in New Zealand Sex Case

New Zealand will appoint an inspector general of police following a damning report that revealed “significant failings” in how senior officers handled sexual misconduct allegations against former deputy commissioner Jevon McSkimming.

The Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) released a 135-page report detailing complaints from Ms Z, a police staffer, who accused McSkimming of sexual interaction without consent and threats involving intimate recordings. Instead of investigating the allegations, police initially charged Ms Z with sending harmful digital communications — charges later withdrawn.

The report found the police response was marked by inaction and an “unquestioning acceptance” of McSkimming’s account, raising serious concerns about integrity and culture among senior leadership. It recommended overhauls in police policies, stricter oversight of misconduct, and more robust investigation procedures.

Police Minister Mark Mitchell described the findings as “atrocious on every level,” noting the report revealed major flaws in judgment and decision-making at the top echelons of the force. Current Police Commissioner Richard Chambers called the handling of the case “inexcusable” and apologised to Ms Z, acknowledging she was ignored while McSkimming’s career ambitions were prioritised.

The allegations date back to a 2016 sexual relationship between McSkimming, then 40, and Ms Z, then 21. Following the relationship’s end in 2018, Ms Z sent hundreds of emails and lodged complaints detailing McSkimming’s alleged misconduct. Investigations into her complaints were delayed, and McSkimming went on to become deputy commissioner.

The government’s appointment of an inspector general aims to ensure accountability and restore public confidence in the police. The report underscores a pressing need for systemic reform to protect vulnerable individuals and enforce ethical standards within the force.