Former Police Chief Andrew Coster Set to Resign Amid Scandal

Former New Zealand Police Commissioner Andrew Coster is poised to resign from his position as chief executive of the Social Investment Agency, according to reports. This anticipated resignation follows the release of a critical report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA), which detailed serious misconduct within the police force regarding allegations of sexual offending by former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming.

Coster was placed on leave after the IPCA’s findings were made public last month. The report revealed that senior police officials, including Coster, mishandled the response to allegations against McSkimming, particularly concerning an affair with a non-sworn police employee. Sources suggest that Coster’s resignation is imminent, although formal announcements have yet to be made.

Implications of the IPCA Report

The IPCA’s report, comprising 135 pages, highlighted significant failures in police leadership and accountability. It indicated that when the police eventually referred the woman’s claims, senior officials attempted to influence the investigation. Public Service Minister Judith Collins criticized this behavior, stating that if she were in a similar position, she would feel “deeply ashamed.”

“This is now an employment conversation between the public service commissioner and Andrew Coster,” Collins noted, emphasizing the severity of the situation. She described the leadership’s attempt to manipulate the investigation as “very serious,” and suggested that such actions could be perceived as corrupt. “If it walks like a duck, and it quacks like a duck, it’s not looking good,” she added.

Collins expressed gratitude to those who reported the misconduct, stating that the findings should never happen again. The matter is currently under review by Brian Roche, the public service commissioner.

Responses from Political Leaders

Social Investment Minister Nicola Willis expressed her shock and dismay over the report’s findings. She stated that the responsibility now lies with Roche as Coster’s employer. Meanwhile, Police Minister Mark Mitchell acknowledged that Coster, as a leader, should be held accountable for his role in the situation.

Opposition leader Chris Hipkins also voiced his disappointment, emphasizing that senior police failed to appropriately address complaints against McSkimming. “This is inexcusable and a complete failure of duty,” he remarked. Hipkins, who appointed McSkimming during his tenure as prime minister, stated that had these issues been raised during the vetting process, McSkimming would not have been appointed.

As the situation develops, Coster’s impending resignation marks a significant moment in New Zealand’s policing history, highlighting the critical need for accountability within law enforcement agencies. The fallout from the IPCA report will likely have lasting implications on public trust in the police force and governance structures moving forward.