Chris Hipkins Rejects Police Chief’s Allegations of Briefing

Chris Hipkins, New Zealand’s Minister for Police, has firmly denied claims made by former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster regarding an informal briefing related to the handling of complaints against disgraced Deputy Commissioner Jevon McSkimming. During a recent interview on TVNZ’s Q+A program, Coster alleged that Hipkins and current Police Minister Mark Mitchell had been privy to more information than they have publicly acknowledged regarding McSkimming’s situation.

Coster’s comments come in the wake of his resignation from the role of chief executive at the Social Investment Agency, amid significant scrutiny surrounding his handling of the McSkimming affair, which included a relationship with a much younger woman. He stated that Cabinet ministers from various governments had received informal briefings concerning the police’s internal processes, specifically mentioning an encounter with Hipkins in July 2022.

In this alleged encounter, Coster claimed that the briefing occurred in a car while they were traveling through the South Island. He noted that he did not keep a record of the conversation. Coster indicated that Hipkins was briefed either shortly before or during the preparation for the statutory appointment process of McSkimming as Deputy Commissioner.

In response, Hipkins expressed his confusion over the assertions made by Coster. He mentioned that he spent considerable time reflecting over the weekend on whether there was information that he might have overlooked regarding the case. In his remarks to the media, Hipkins emphasized, “There was no informal briefing, and I stand by that statement.”

The controversy surrounding McSkimming has sparked broader discussions about transparency and accountability within the New Zealand Police. As the situation unfolds, both Hipkins and Mitchell face increasing pressure to clarify their roles and knowledge surrounding the complaints against McSkimming.

The implications of Coster’s allegations could have far-reaching effects, not only for the individuals involved but also for public trust in the police force and its leadership. As investigations continue, the New Zealand public will be watching closely to see how this situation develops, particularly with the upcoming elections set for November 6, 2024.

The events surrounding McSkimming and the subsequent fallout have raised critical questions about governance and oversight in law enforcement. The outcome of this situation may well influence future policies and procedures within the New Zealand Police and beyond.