The Minister for Police must immediately announce an independent investigation into Tasmania Police’s handling of child sexual abuse allegations against former officer Paul Reynolds, and whether Reynolds’ had any influence over the police response to complaints of child sexual abuse.
The Commission of Inquiry outlined serious concerns about the way Tasmania Police responded to child sexual abuse allegations made against Paul Reynolds, but did not have time or resources to examine them further. The questions they raise are grave and far-reaching in implications, and demand a proper investigation.
Last week we wrote to Police Minister Felix Ellis calling on him to establish an independent investigation into Tasmania Police’s failure to respond appropriately to complaints of child sexual abuse against Reynolds – which effectively allowed this officer to continue to abuse children for another decade.
Given Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds was the Officer of Charge of police prosecutions for the whole north-west and west of the state, the investigation also needs to examine any influence he might have had in stymying the progress of complaints of child sexual abuse made to police.
Given the seriousness of this matter, we are concerned Minister Ellis has not responded to our letter, and has apparently refused to respond to media queries.
Tasmanians must have full confidence the police will believe complaints of child sexual abuse, and take action. This is unfinished business from the Commission of Inquiry, and it is up to the Minister to act.
Given the evidence the Commission of Inquiry has already collected on this matter, failure to undertake this independent investigation would be a shocking and disturbing decision.
