Police Minister, Mark Mitchell, has confirmed the resignation of Deputy Commissioner of Police, Jevon McSkimming.
Mr Mitchell said Mr McSkimming’s (pictured) resignation today would take immediate effect, “before he could be dismissed”. He said Mr McSkimming had been suspended last December, pending a criminal investigation.
“I can confirm a process had been underway for the Prime Minister to consider recommending the Governor-General immediately remove the Deputy Commissioner of Police from office,” says Mr Mitchell.
“I instructed the Public Service Commission to commence the process to remove Mr McSkimming from office after allegations of a very serious nature recently came to light, separate to the investigation that led to him being suspended.”
It’s understood the suspension followed the alleged discovery of pornographic material on Mr McSkimming’s work computer.
“The Policing Act is very clear: A Deputy Commissioner of Police must be a ‘fit and proper’ person. They are rightly held to the highest standards of conduct and this new information called into serious question Mr McSkimming’s fitness for office,” said Mr Mitchell.
“When Mr McSkimming was invited to respond to these allegations he chose to resign. Mr McSkimming’s resignation has confirmed my view that his continuation in the role was untenable.
“Police advise that their investigations into Mr McSkimming will continue, notwithstanding his resignation.
“As the latest information remains subject to ongoing Police investigation, I am unable to provide further comment at this time.”
Deputy Commissioners of Police are appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
