In a stunning turn of events, a corruption watchdog has closed its investigation into racism within the Northern Territory police force’s elite Tactical Response Group (TRG) without any adverse findings. The probe, triggered by allegations from former constable Zachary Rolfe, aimed to uncover the truth behind a historical racist mock award handed out to officers who behaved “most like an Aboriginal”.
Investigation Uncovers Historical Racism
While the investigation did not result in any charges or disciplinary action, it did bring to light disturbing evidence of historical racism within the police force between 2007 and 2015. The Independent Commissioner Against Corruption’s report revealed the existence of mock award certificates with offensive racist content, including references to “utmost level of Aboriginality” and images of Aboriginal men surrounded by beer cans.
Although the investigation to this point has uncovered some evidence of historical racism within the police force, despite a very thorough investigation there has not been any evidence of any further racist conduct or material produced after 2015.
– Patricia Kelly, Independent Commissioner Against Corruption delegate
The report acknowledged that the behavior depicted in these certificates is now considered unacceptable. However, the director of public prosecutions found insufficient evidence to charge any of the five officers under investigation with criminal conduct or misconduct.
Contradictory Statements and Apologies
During the probe, the commissioner received declarations from former and current police officers that contradicted the statements made by the five officers under investigation, primarily regarding the origin and meaning of the “Nugedah” award. One of the officers, when shown the racist images, acknowledged their offensive nature and apologized for any distress caused.
Despite these contradictions, the report noted that none of the five officers had been given the opportunity to respond to the allegations against them, making it impossible for the commissioner to make any adverse findings about their statements.
Positive Actions and Government Response
The report highlighted positive actions already taken by the police force to address racism, as described in detail by each of the five officers under investigation. The Northern Territory government also weighed in, stating that it had never supported allegations of systemic racism within the force and that the report “puts those claims to bed”.
This period has caused much angst and distress amongst our hardworking police.
– Northern Territory government spokesman
The Zachary Rolfe Connection
The investigation into racism within the TRG was triggered by former constable Zachary Rolfe, who sought to prove the force’s ingrained culture of racism following his acquittal for the murder of 19-year-old Kumanjayi Walker. Rolfe shot Walker three times as he resisted arrest while armed with scissors in Yuendumu in November 2019.
Rolfe’s allegations and the subsequent investigation have raised questions about the extent of racial discrimination within the Northern Territory police force. While the probe did not result in any charges, it has brought to light a troubling history of racist behavior and sparked a broader conversation about the need for cultural change within law enforcement.
Looking Ahead
As the Northern Territory police force moves forward, it will be crucial for leadership to address the issues raised by this investigation and take proactive steps to combat racism and discrimination at all levels. This may include:
- Enhanced diversity and inclusion training for all officers
- Stricter policies and consequences for racist behavior
- Improved community engagement and trust-building initiatives
- Greater transparency and accountability in handling allegations of misconduct
While the closure of this investigation without adverse findings may be seen as a setback by some, it has nonetheless shone a light on a dark chapter in the Northern Territory police force’s history. It is now up to the force’s leadership and the government to ensure that the lessons learned from this probe are not forgotten and that real change is implemented to prevent such racism from occurring in the future.
As the Northern Territory community grapples with the fallout from this investigation, it is clear that the fight against racism and discrimination within law enforcement is far from over. Only through sustained effort, open dialogue, and a commitment to justice and equality can true progress be made.
