An independent review will be conducted into the conduct of the late Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds, following revelations that Tasmania Police had been aware of pedophilia allegations against him for a decade before giving him a full police funeral.
Senior Sergeant Reynolds died by suicide in 2018 while the allegations were being investigated, but was still given a police funeral, which was recently criticised by the child sexual abuse Commission of Inquiry.
The review, led by barrister Regina Weiss, will assess whether Senior Sergeant Reynolds used his position to groom and sexually abuse young people, as well as whether any criminal misconduct occurred during his career.
It will also investigate whether officers involved in the initial investigation engaged in any misconduct themselves.
Once the review is complete, Ms Weiss will prepare a report with outcomes, potential misconduct findings and recommendations for policy and practice reforms.
Tasmania Police Commissioner Donna Adams said “the decision to hold a police funeral was a mistake and one we regret”.
“I sincerely apologise to all victim survivors and all Tasmania Police staff for this decision,” she said.
“It’s critical that we learn from our past failings, and do whatever we can to ensure such serious allegations against a police officer are appropriately investigated.”
“Victim-survivors or members of the community are encouraged to report concerns or provide information regarding the behaviour of Paul Reynolds.”
Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff said while the party welcomes the investigation, they “are concerned the scope of the investigation is inadequate” and question whether investigator Regina Weiss “will have the powers she needs to examine this issue properly”.
“It is good news an independent investigation has been announced, but we are troubled to see the inadequate Terms of Reference that have been set by the Commissioner for Police,” Woodruff said.
“It also appears the investigation has not been given the power to compel witnesses, order the production of evidence, or refer individuals for prosecution.”
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual violence, please call the state-wide Sexual Assault Crisis Line 24/7 on 1800 697 877.
If you or someone you know is impacted by family violence, please call the Family Violence Response and Referral Line 24/7 on 1800 633 937.
In an emergency, always call 000.
