Police officer's wife in fraud case

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The wife of a Tauranga police officer is being investigated for fraud thought to involve more than $1 million.

Police are investigating allegations involving Michelle Campbell, who worked in finance for Tauranga new and used car retailer Ebbett Holden.

Her husband, Constable Steve Campbell, works for the local search and rescue and is its youth volunteer co-ordinator.

Police have spoken to him as part of the investigation, but he has not been stood down from his duties.

Ebbett said Mrs Campbell, who was business manager, no longer works for the company.

Bay of Plenty police confirmed that an investigation was under way.

The amount of the alleged fraud could not be confirmed because the investigation was not yet complete, but "the potential amount may be more than $1 million", Inspector Mark Harrison, the acting district commander, said.

Police had brought in detectives from outside the area to investigate so as to ensure transparency and independence.

"We believe this approach was important and appropriate given the circumstances."

The contract to supply police cars is with Holden New Zealand, not with individual dealers.

David Johnston, principal dealer at Ebbett, said he could not comment while police were investigating.

- © Fairfax NZ News