Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds Andrew Coster and Jevon McSkimming Email Protocol
12/7/2025, 1:52:36 AM
Core Event: Allegations of Email Protocol Mismanagement
The controversy surrounding former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster and former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming has intensified following allegations regarding an email protocol that allegedly prevented Police Minister Mark Mitchell from receiving critical information about McSkimming. Coster has denied knowledge of this protocol, which Mitchell claims originated from Coster's office, leading to a significant political fallout.
Background & Context: The McSkimming Affair
The allegations against Jevon McSkimming, which include claims of inappropriate conduct and an affair with a younger woman, have been a focal point of scrutiny. The Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) report, released in November 2024, criticized the police's handling of complaints against McSkimming, highlighting failures in leadership and oversight during Coster's tenure as Police Commissioner. Coster resigned from his role as Chief Executive of the Social Investment Agency shortly after the report's release, acknowledging his responsibility for the shortcomings identified.
Key Figures Involved
- Andrew Coster: Former Police Commissioner, who has faced criticism for his management of the McSkimming case.
- Mark Mitchell: Current Police Minister, who claims Coster was aware of the email protocol that diverted allegations about McSkimming away from him.
- Jevon McSkimming: Former Deputy Police Commissioner, accused of misconduct and currently awaiting sentencing for unrelated charges.
Official Statements & Responses
Coster has stated, “I had absolutely no knowledge of that whatsoever,” regarding the email protocol. He emphasized that he only learned of the protocol after the IPCA report was released. Conversely, Mitchell described Coster's claims as “unfathomable,” asserting that the protocol was verified by multiple police employees and originated from Coster's office. Mitchell maintained that he was first briefed about the allegations against McSkimming on November 6, 2024, contradicting Coster's assertion of earlier discussions.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed to the systemic failures within the police leadership that allowed McSkimming's alleged misconduct to go unaddressed for years. Public Service Minister Judith Collins has commented on the implications of the situation, suggesting that the handling of the case reflects poorly on the integrity of the police force. The IPCA report did not find evidence of corruption or collusion, but the perception of a cover-up has persisted in public discourse.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the timeline and nature of communications between Coster, Mitchell, and former Police Minister Chris Hipkins. Coster claims he briefed Hipkins informally about McSkimming's conduct, a claim Hipkins denies. Additionally, Mitchell asserts that Coster's recollections of disclosures related to the IPCA report are inconsistent and unreliable.
What's Next: Implications for Public Service
The fallout from the McSkimming case has raised questions about the appointment processes for senior public servants in New Zealand. Discussions are ongoing regarding potential reforms to ensure greater transparency and accountability in future appointments. The Public Service Commissioner has indicated that the handling of this case will set a precedent for how similar situations are managed across the public sector.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I had absolutely no knowledge of that whatsoever.” — Andrew Coster, Former Police Commissioner
- “The protocol around the emails has been repeatedly verified by several police employees who were given the instruction by Coster’s office.” — Mark Mitchell, Police Minister
- “It does not find cover-up.” — Andrew Coster, Former Police Commissioner
The ongoing debate surrounding the handling of the McSkimming allegations continues to impact public confidence in the police and highlights the need for systemic reforms within New Zealand's public service.
