Corrections was aware one of its probation officers was being investigated by police over alleged child sex offending for more than two weeks before he was arrested, but did not tell his regional managers.
By Sam Sherwood of RNZ
Corrections has acknowledged there was a "missed opportunity" in not telling his superiors. Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell said the decision not to immediately notify managers of the allegations was "unacceptable".
The man was arrested last month on eight representative charges, including four of sexual violation and four of doing an indecent act.
He appeared in court the day after his arrest and was granted interim name suppression. RNZ understands he has since died.
Following questions from RNZ after his court appearance, Corrections acting deputy chief executive of communities, partnerships and pathways Lynette Cave said Corrections took any allegation involving sexual or indecent assault "extremely seriously".
Cave confirmed that Corrections' integrity team had received "initial information" regarding the matter from police on 5 January and had provided information to assist with their investigation.
"Regrettably, the staff member's regional managers were not made aware of this. The Integrity team acknowledge there was a missed opportunity in informing regional management and improved processes are being implemented to support clearer and more consistent notification."
Cave said Corrections expected the "utmost professionalism from our employees".
"Corrections employs approximately 11,000 staff, and the overwhelming majority of our people act with integrity, honesty and professionalism. When staff do not meet the standards required of them, we take action, including terminating their employment."
A Corrections spokesperson confirmed they had been notified a staff member had passed away. They directed further questions on the death to police.
In a statement to RNZ, Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell said he was always "extremely concerned" about any allegation of sexual offending by a staff member.
"I expect Corrections' staff to always obey the law and act with integrity.
"The integrity team's decision to not immediately notify managers of these allegations was unacceptable. It is my clear expectation that any allegation of serious wrongdoing, especially sexual offending by a staff member, is immediately escalated to the relevant manager to ensure all appropriate action is taken."
Mitchell said he had been advised that Corrections was taking steps to improve how they notify regional managers of such allegations.
A police spokesperson confirmed police received a report relating to the matter in December last year.
As the matter was before the court, they were unable to provide further comment.
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including NZ’s most stolen car, revelations Jeffrey Epstein may have had a secret child, and why Trump’s suing the host of the Grammy’s. (Source: 1News)
SHARE ME