Police praise 'brave' bribery complainant

Police have praised the woman at the centre of a bribery and corruption investigation involving a Wanganui Police Officer.

Constable Hayden Clifford Bradley was found not guilty at the High Court in New Plymouth today following allegations he tried to get sexual favours from a woman in return for letting her off a driving charge.

District Commander Superintendent Russell Gibson said after today's verdict that while the jury had not found they had sufficient evidence to convict the officer, the evidence presented outlining the Officer's behaviour was disappointing and undermined the integrity of NZ Police.

"Our reputation and our integrity is our greatest asset and we guard that very fondly."

Superintendent Gibson thanked the woman involved for her bravery in coming to Police with the allegation.

"This woman has shown enormous integrity and strength in raising a matter where she felt a person in a position of power was acting inappropriately. She has had no personal gain from this situation and was subsequently prosecuted for driving while disqualified."

Superintendent Gibson said he was also heartened by the timely and professional way the woman's complaint was dealt with by Wanganui Officers.

He said an internal employment investigation would take place to assess the Constable's suitability to remain a member of Police.

ENDS

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