Waugh calls for culture change

Reinstated senior police officer Alec Waugh wants to return to duty- calls for a culture change in the police

7 December 2003
Former Wanganui police chief Alec Waugh says huge public support helped him in his fight for justice.

The Employment Court has negated his March 1998 resignation from the force, paving the way for his return.

It comes 14 months after the High Court quashed his fraud conviction.

Alec Waugh says in the almost seven years since he was charged, he has been inundated with support, often from people who don't know him.

He says it has kept him strong.

On the other hand, Mr Waugh says he is disappointed with the lack of support he got from most in the police.

He has called for a culture change within the police.

Alec Waugh says he now wants to return to active duty.

He says his case is an example of how police aren't good at admitting their mistakes, or rectifying them.

However, Mr Waugh says the same can be said for other organisations, both public and private.

He says he is delighted with the ruling, and wants to return to the force to serve the community.

He says he expects to return to a senior rank, and is confident other officers won't make it difficult.

He is entitled to more than six years' back pay.

© 2009 NZCity, IRN