NZ Police Association

Media Release

For Immediate Release
19 August 2005

Good Cops Doing What They Believed Was Their Job In Motorcade

"The two police officers in the Motorcade who were convicted are good cops who were doing their absolute best to perform their duty," NZ Police Association President, Mr O'Connor said today.

Mr O'Connor was commenting on the conviction of the two constables and the civilian driver in Timaru today.

"These officers have been placed before the court for doing what they believe was their duty and the trial has exposed training and policy shortcomings from the Police Administration," said Mr O'Connor. "The Police Association believes such deficiencies expose frontline police and more responsibility should be taken by Police leadership for this, as indicated by the court today."

"New Zealand has now caught-up with the rest of the world in relation to having motorcades, we must ensure those expected to perform these duties have the protection of proper policies in place and are trained well in these policies," said Mr O'Connor.

"The Association is pleased for the three officers who were acquitted today and believe this decision highlights the pressure on police officers doing the frontline work."

"The Police Association has provided full financial and welfare support for the officers and their families and will continue to do so," said Mr O'Connor. "We are proud to stand behind such dedicated and professional officers."

ENDS

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