Media Release

5 June 2002

Police Damned If They Do – Damned If They Don’t

“The announcement by Chief Justice Sian Elias that she has reserved her decision on the Wallace Shooting will be of no comfort to Police men and women or their families” said New Zealand First Law and Order Spokesman, Ron Mark.

“Last week Police were criticised in Whakatane for not intervening when warring gangs clashed whilst this week we continue to debate the rights and wrongs of Constable A’s actions in Waitara two years ago.“

“I find it curious that the Judiciary can take years sitting in leather seats in the comfort of air conditioned offices passing judgement on Constable A who only had seconds to react.”

“If the Police men and women of this nation are to go about their work with confidence then we, the people of NZ, and that includes the Judiciary, must express our confidence and support in them. To not do so will leave them in the current position where they feel they are damned if they do and damned if they don’t.”

“ I look forward to a sensible and just outcome in these protracted deliberations” concluded Ron Mark.

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