‘Atrocious on every level’: sex case findings shame New Zealand’s senior police culture
Guardian1 day
New Zealand: Report Claims Police Failed to Investigate Misconduct Allegations
Above: New Zealand Police Commissioner Richard Chambers and Police Minister Mark Mitchell at a press conference at Parliament, Wellington, New Zealand, on Nov. 11, 2025. Image copyright: Mark Mitchell/New Zealand Herald/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Police leadership completely failed a vulnerable woman by covering up serious sexual misconduct allegations against Deputy Commissioner McSkimming. The former executive prioritized protecting their own careers over justice, prosecuting the victim instead of probing her complaints. Corruption at the highest levels has shattered public trust in law enforcement.
Narrative B
New Police Commissioner Richard Chambers is taking decisive action to rebuild integrity after inheriting this mess from previous leadership. Enhanced monitoring systems are already catching misconduct, proving the new safeguards work effectively. The current police force shouldn't be judged by past failures when strong reforms are actively protecting the public.