Media Release

For Immediate Release
20 June 2008

Steve Fitzgerald - One Of The Genuine Good Guys

"Police in virtually every area of operation, especially in the Road Policing and Communications areas, are in shock over the death of one of the Police Administration's good guys,"said President of the New Zealand Police Association, Greg O'Connor.

Mr O'Connor was commenting on the tragic death of Police Superintendent Steve Fitzgerald last night.

"Steve was one of those people who could get the best out of everyone around him - not by wielding the authority of his rank, but by sheer strength of personality, good humour and the incredible ability to include everyone in the plan," said Mr O'Connor. "The two fields he worked in most recently, Road Policing and Communications, have both increased capability and effectiveness under his command, as a result of these characteristics."

"Steve was an extremely affable, competent and reassuring face for the Police in his many media and public appearances, both promoting and defending Police initiatives," said Mr O'Connor. "He will be a loss, not only to the Police he inspired, but also to the New Zealand public, whom he served with humility and a genuine desire to improve the country for everyone."

ENDS

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