Secret Info Exchange over Priest Sex Abuse

By Paul Maguire
Courier Mail
June 25, 2013

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/breaking-news/secret-info-exchange-over-priest-sex-abuse/story-fnihsfrf-1226669590481

A JOURNALIST began a secret information exchange with a senior NSW police officer because she believed he was ready to investigate the concealment of child sexual abuse by Catholic priests in the Hunter Valley.

Newcastle Herald reporter Joanne McCarthy told a special NSW commission of inquiry on Tuesday that was the reason behind her extensive contact with Detective Chief Inspector Peter Fox from 2010.

Under cross examination by barrister Wayne Roser on behalf of several other senior police officers, Ms McCarthy denied her arrangement with Det Insp Fox had anything to do with difficulties he may have been encountering within the force.

When explaining a series of emails during 2010 and 2011 between herself and the officer, Ms McCarthy said: "He was ready to investigate concealment.

"Possibly he was feeling isolated and alone.

"I think I was a bit of a sounding board, I guess he was feeling pretty much on the outer and I was trying (she broke off and resumed) ... possibly we were both feeling the same way."

She said she knew he had met resistance in trying to investigate concealment matters and wanted to be part of a Newcastle-based police strike force set up for that purpose.

But she was not acting in concert with him to assist with his career.

Ms McCarthy said her initial motivation to write newspaper articles about alleged child sexual abuse by clergy was based on her concern for victims and extended into a desire to shine a light on an alleged cover up.

Ms McCarthy's articles, some based on information provided by Det Insp Fox, led to the commission of inquiry which is being heard by Commissioner Margaret Cunneen in Newcastle Supreme Court.

The commission is examining how police and the Maitland/Newcastle Catholic Church diocese handled child sex allegations, particularly those involving priests Denis McAlinden and James Fletcher.

Det Insp Fox has alleged church leaders covered up crimes and were assisted by a "Catholic mafia" within police ranks.

The commission continues.