Police officer of highest rank in New Zealand faces charges for possession of child pornography and bestiality content
Jevon McSkimming, the former Deputy Police Commissioner of New Zealand, will reappear before the court in November, facing eight charges of possessing objectionable publications, including child sexual exploitation and bestiality material.
The charges, which carry a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for each count, relate to material found on McSkimming's work devices over a four-year period. McSkimming resigned from his position in May 2025 amid investigations by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) and the police, following allegations about the material on his devices.
McSkimming was arrested on June 27, 2025, in Wellington. An interim name suppression order was initially granted but later lapsed in July, allowing his identity and charges to be made public. As he left court, McSkimming declined to comment on the case and did not have a message for the public.
Former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster described the case as "really disturbing," emphasizing that the matter is before the courts and it is inappropriate to comment further until it is resolved. McSkimming has not yet entered a plea and is currently out on bail, with his next court appearance scheduled for November 2025.
Following the revelations, Police Commissioner Richard Chambers ordered an independent review of police information security to assess whether there were adequate controls to prevent misuse of police devices. The IPCA is also prioritizing a separate investigation into allegations of misconduct related to this case, including whether any other police staff exhibited misconduct or neglect of duty in handling the allegations. However, no timeframe has been provided for the completion of these investigations.
The courts had previously prevented media from reporting McSkimming's name or other details of the case. McSkimming's resignation occurred in May, and he was on leave for six months before his resignation. McSkimming was suspended from his job on full pay in December 2024, and an investigation into his conduct was launched at that time.
Details of the allegations against McSkimming cannot be reported. One of the charges states that the offenses occurred between July 2020 and December 2024. Judge Black remanded McSkimming on bail. McSkimming's lawyer, Letizea Ord, stated that there is no further application for name suppression.
This case serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and it emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity and professionalism expected of those in positions of authority.
- In the realm of general news, the case of Jevon McSkimming, a former Deputy Police Commissioner of New Zealand, is a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and professionalism, especially in positions of authority, as he faces charges related to possession of objectionable publications, such as child sexual exploitation and bestiality material.
- Concurrently, the health-and-wellness sector and science community should be vigilant about the impact of such cases, as they underscore the need for ongoing education and awareness programs on issues surrounding sexual health, particularly in relation to online misconduct.
