Police stand by process in burglary case

The actions of officers involved in the arrest of Arie Smith-Voorkamp and his alleged co-offender on burglary charges soon after the 22 February earthquake were correct and proper procedures followed.

Christchurch Central Area Commander Inspector Derek Erasmus says Police are fully satisfied with the way the arrest was dealt with by local officers.

"Claims that the alleged offenders were assaulted are completely incorrect, Inspector Erasmus says. "We have met with Mr Smith-Voorkamp and his lawyer twice and no complaint has been made. Claims that Australian police or Army personnel were involved are also spurious - neither organisation was involved in the apprehension of the men."

Inspector Erasmus says Police have also followed correct procedures in opposing diversion for the alleged offender. Strict criteria must be met in order for diversion to be an option.

"We have reviewed our decision against the diversion policy and we are confident we have been entirely consistent with it."

"One of the fundamental requirements of the diversion process is that the offender needs to be able to make an informed admission of guilt"

Inspector Erasmus says under the Police Adult Diversion Policy the defendant had the right to have the decision reviewed. This was done at a district level and later confirmed by Police Prosecution Service, at National Headquarters and the decision stands.

The case is still before the court.

Inspector Erasmus says he has personally spoken today to the owners of the property which was allegedly burgled, and says they are happy with the Police handling of the case to date. "They have advised they are more than happy for the case to proceed to court which is where they believe the matter should be resolved."

ENDS

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