Newcastle's Head Policeman Welcomes Special Commission Findings

ABC News
June 2, 2014

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-06-03/newcastle27s-head-policeman-welcomes-special-commission-findin/5495770

Newcastle's head policeman says the findings of the Special Commission of Inquiry into child sexual abuse in the Maitland-Newcastle Catholic Diocese highlight the good work done by local officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Fox, whose concerns sparked the inquiry, not only pointed the finger at the Church but also at his police colleagues for covering up paedophilia within the diocese.

Commissioner Margaret Cunneen was damning of Detective Chief Inspector Fox and found no evidence of wrong doing by police officers involved in the investigation.

Newcastle Local Area Commander, Superintendent John Gralton says police have been vindicated by the inquiry.

"I'm actually very, very proud of the efforts that police went to in strike force Lantle," he said.

"And Commissioner Cunneen noted that the independent assessment of the brief of evidence prepared by those officer and I should say dedicated officers, was that high standard it was the view of the independent QC Ian Lloyd that it was one of the best briefs he'd ever seen."

Commissioner Cunneen was also damning of the Maitland-Newcastle Catholic diocese and its handling of paedophile priests Denis McAlinden and James Fletcher.

Superintendent John says it is a good outcome for victims.

"I'm really pleased for the victims that they're getting some recompense," he said.

"As I said myself during the commission any paedophile hitting the dock is something to celebrate."