NT cop punished for poor taste
A Northern Territory police officer has been suspended without pay for allegedly printing offensive singlets.
NT Police says a 61-year-old officer had been suspended for serious breaches of discipline following an internal investigation.
Reports say the allegations relate to the production of singlets printed with the words “Don't wanna get shot … Don't stab a cop! #bluelivesmatter”.
It appears to be a reference to the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Kumanjayi Walker in the remote central Australian community of Yuendumu in November.
NT Police Constable Zachary Rolfe has been charged with murder over the shooting, and intends to plead not guilty.
The statement this week said an unnamed officer was “allegedly responsible for the production and distribution of clothing that displayed highly inappropriate content”.
Assistant Commissioner Michael White said it is disgraceful.
“For a serving officer to be involved in this behaviour brings disrepute to the entire police force and this behaviour is unacceptable,” he said.
“I reiterate [NT Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker's] apology to the community for the conduct of this member.”