JC: Richard Chambers Is a ‘Top Cop’

I can justify my headline by revealing that I have known Richard Chambers and his family for nigh on 50 years. When Richard joined the New Zealand Police I was in no doubt he had a promising career ahead of him. The fact that he is now the ‘Top Cop’ is of no surprise to me. This man is as ‘honest as the day is long’. He has had a long and distinguished career in the police and he obviously caught the eye of the current Police Minister Mark Mitchell.

As most people know, Mitchell himself has had a career in the New Zealand Police. He would have seen in Richard the qualities that are needed of someone who could be considered for the role of commissioner. Knowing Richard as I do, my view is Mitchell would have formed a favourable opinion of him fairly early on.

Richard has had pretty much a baptism of fire since being appointed, including the Tom Phillips drama, where one of his staff was shot, and also the murder of a member of his staff in Nelson. In both instances, and others, he has acquitted himself with distinction. The attributes that Richard brings to the role are honesty, integrity and an assurance that nothing will be the subject of a coverup. He will lead by example, set high standards and expect them to be followed.

Richard comes into the role at a time when someone of his calibre and professionalism is sorely needed. If anyone can restore public confidence in the police it will be him. He is a man of principle and will ensure that the highest standards expected of police will be upheld. We must remember there are about 15,000 people employed by the police and the vast majority are dedicated hard working employees. They should not be implicated by the transgressions of the former top echelons.

In Richard they have a boss they can trust and look up to. He will ensure the workplace environment is one where they feel appreciated and are able to do the job expected of them. On his first day as commissioner, Richard outlined his top high level priorities. They are:

• Focus on core policing – enforcing the law – prevention, response, investigations and resolutions.
• Doing the basics well.
• Supporting the frontline – enhancing staff safety, wellbeing and capability.
• Leadership – that is visible, connected, supportive and accountable.
• Fiscal responsibility – including identifying opportunities to reinvest in the frontline.

I have read some commentary critical of Richard’s role in the Covid-19 protests at Parliament Grounds. I think it should be remembered that it was Ardern’s and Mallard’s wish that the area be cleared of people. Also, later in the protest it was, to a degree, hijacked by ‘rent-a-crowd’. The actions of those on the frontline can be debated but the police were essentially carrying out the wishes of the government.

I am sure Richard will acquit himself well in his role. He possesses all the attributes necessary to ensure public trust in the police is not only restored but maintained. My assumption in this regard has been substantiated by retired Judge David Harvey, appearing on the Platform with Sean Plunket. Sean asked him a question on what was required to restore public trust in the police.

He replied, “I have confidence in Richard Chambers, Commissioner of Police. I think he’s doing everything he possibly can. He has been handed a real nasty with this. Imagine coming in as a new commissioner having to deal with this one. If they put the proper processes in place and adopt a completely transparent attitude from top to bottom, and publicise it publicly, then I think the rebuilding will take place.”

I think that is exactly what Richard will have in mind. Proper processes and transparency will be uppermost in his thinking. Knowing Richard as I do, I am looking forward to following his progress in such an important position. I wish him the best of luck. He may well need it!

JC is a right-wing crusader. Reached an age that embodies the dictum only the good die young. This article was first published HERE