Former Deputy Police Commissioner, Jevon McSkimming, 52, has pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual exploitation and bestiality material in Wellington District Court.
Mr McSkimming (pictured, file image) pleaded guilty to three charges of possessing objectionable publications – child sexual exploitation and bestiality material knowing – or having reasonable cause to believe that the publication is objectionable.
In a statement, Police Commissioner Richard Chambers described Mr McSkimming’s behaviour as “disgraceful”.
“Mr McSkimming’s behaviour was not only criminal, but goes against the core values of Police,” said the Police Commissioner.
“I will not allow this to tarnish my staff, who are as appalled by this as I am. This shameful episode has done their dedication an immense disservice.”
The Commissioner said the allegations against the former Deputy were taken seriously and acted on at the earliest opportunity.
“As soon as I was made aware of the nature of the material found, I raised it with the Minister of Police as a conduct matter to allow him to consider Mr McSkimming’s position at the time as a statutory deputy commissioner,” he said.
Mr McSkimming subsequently resigned from NZ Police.
“This conduct has no place in Police,” the Commissioner said.
“I also ordered a rapid review of the controls and security of Police devices. I moved quickly to remedy the gaps it identified and ordered auditing and monitoring of staff use of Police devices.
“We will investigate any cases of staff found to have accessed inappropriate or objectionable material and will take action where conduct falls short of standard and expectations.
“Lastly, but most importantly, I want to acknowledge the outstanding work of more than 15,000 Police staff across the country who work day and night to help keep our country safe,” he said.
Mr McSkimming made no comment to waiting media as he left the court today.
