Alexandra officer investigated

An Alexandra-based police officer has been suspended from duty pending the outcome of a three-month disciplinary inquiry.

Southern district operations manager Inspector Lane Todd, of Dunedin, confirmed a Central Otago officer was stood down from duty several weeks ago and suspended on full pay.

Mr Todd said the Independent Police Conduct Authority, had been notified as soon as police became aware of the matter.

The investigation, which has been under way since December, was at a "pivotal stage" and was expected to be completed by the end of the month, he said.

The officer potentially faced disciplinary procedures internally, external criminal charges or a return to duty, he said.

He declined to reveal the nature of the allegation.

Once the investigation, which is led by officers seconded under Mr Todd's command, was complete then the IPCA would review the inquiry, he said.

"The fact is, the officer has been stood down from duty. Clearly, that's not a decision we make lightly."

Otago rural area commander Inspector Mike Cook, of Alexandra, said any disciplinary investigations were handled centrally from the district headquarters.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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