Time for Police Commissioner to take a second look

Green Party justice spokesperson David Clendon has written to Police Commissioner Peter Marshall requesting an investigation into the prosecution and conviction of Teina Pora.

“There are serious questions about the investigation and prosecution of Teina Pora which need to be answered,” Mr Clendon said.

A documentary by Auckland filmmaker Michael Bennett aired on Māori Television last night and highlighted serious problems with the prosecution and conviction of Teina Pora.

Pora was sentenced to life imprisonment and was convicted of the rape and murder of Susan Burdett after the second of two jury trials, which was eventually upheld by the Court of Appeal. He has spent 20 years in jail.

“Teina Pora’s guilt or innocence is a matter requiring a fair investigation. I have written to the Police Commissioner asking him to order a comprehensive re-investigation.

“The Police Commissioner is ultimately responsible for the investigation and prosecution of cases. Maintaining public confidence in the way these investigations are carried out is of critical importance.

“It is absolutely time for Peter Marshall to take a second look at this case and ensure we can all be confident of a fair and just outcome in a justice system we all rely on.

“Serious misconducts of justice are thankfully rare in New Zealand. I am asking for assurance through a re-investigation of this case that this young man has not been falsely convicted,” said Mr Clendon.
ends

© Scoop Media