Statement regarding Todd Barclay MP investigation

Attribute to Assistant Commissioner (Investigations) Richard Chambers

Police received a complaint in February 2016 regarding an allegation that private communications had been intercepted by an individual.

The complaint was assessed and an investigation was commenced, under the supervision of a senior detective.

This investigation examined all the available information, including interviews with key witnesses.

Police were advised by Mr Barclay’s legal representative that he did not want to participate in an interview with Police. This is Mr Barclay’s right and Police cannot compel an individual to give an interview in these circumstances.

Police can confirm that Mr English was spoken to as part of the investigation, and a statement was taken.

In relation to why search warrants were not obtained during the investigation, Police have previously stated that there was insufficient evidence to seek such warrants.

The file was referred to the Police legal section for review.

After consideration of all relevant information and the Solicitor General’s prosecution guidelines, Police determined that there is insufficient evidence to prosecute.

The investigation is now considered closed. If any new information is bought to the attention of Police then that information will be assessed by the investigating officers as to its relevance to this case.

A redacted file on the matter was released to requesters under the Official Information Act. In considering the privacy interests in this case, as the matter never proceeded to prosecution, Police consulted those individuals who provided statements as part of the investigation. The redacted file that was released took into account the views of the individuals consulted.

Police have received further requests today for the un-redacted file. These requests will now be considered in line with our Official Information Act obligations.

ENDS

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