Deputy Police Commissioner Rob Pope, said that following the acquittal of Clint Rickards in the Auckland High Court today Police would now move to address employment issues.
"The last three years have been a difficult time for everyone concerned - for the complainant, the defendant and his family and the police inquiry team.
"The allegations made were very serious and had to be placed before the Court in order for justice to be done."
Mr Pope said the case had naturally been of concern to all police staff.
"Now that the criminal case has gone through the full process we move into the employment issues phase. This will take some time to complete though we will move as quickly as possible. Mr Rickards will remain on suspension during this process".
"I do not wish to prejudice that process by providing further public commentary at this point. A bit more patience will be required before we can put all these issues behind us," said Mr Pope.
ENDS