Former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming has pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual exploitation and bestiality material.
He appeared in the Wellington District Court on Thursday to enter the pleas.
McSkimming pleaded guilty to three representative charges of possessing objectionable publications, namely child sexual exploitation and bestiality material knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the publication is objectionable.
Disgraced former top cop admits to child sexual, bestiality material charges – Watch on TVNZ+
He was initially charged with eight counts of possessing objectionable material, namely bestiality and child exploitation.
The 52-year-old resigned as the country’s second most powerful police officer in May when child exploitation and bestiality material were found on his work devices.
He had been on suspension since December 2024, pending a criminal investigation into a separate matter.
McSkimming was one of the final two candidates for the role of police commissioner last year, with Richard Chambers eventually appointed.
He was promoted to statutory deputy commissioner in 2023 on the recommendation of then-prime minister Chris Hipkins.
McSkimming joined the police in 1996 and worked on the frontline in Auckland and Southland.
‘Shameful episode’ – Police Commissioner
Chambers said the conduct of his former second-in-command was “disgraceful”.
“The outcome shows all police, no matter their rank, are accountable to the laws that apply to us all.”
Chambers said he would not allow the offending to tarnish his staff, who he said were “as appalled by this as I am”.
“This shameful episode has done their dedication an immense disservice.”
Chambers said he had raised the matter with Police Minister Mark Mitchell as soon as he had been made aware to allow him to consider McSkimming’s position.
“I also ordered a rapid review of the controls and security of police devices. I moved quickly to remedy the gaps it identified and ordered auditing and monitoring of staff use of police devices.
“We will investigate any cases of staff found to have accessed inappropriate or objectionable material and will take action where conduct falls short of standard and expectations.”
He added “outstanding work” was being done by more than 15,000 police staff who worked day and night to help keep the country safe.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell told 1News in a statement he could not comment on a case awaiting sentencing.
“What I will say is that I am proud to support our thousands of sworn and non-sworn staff who perform acts of kindness, courage and service every day.” he said.
“Individuals who do not uphold the values or display the integrity required to be a member of the NZ Police should be dealt with appropriately.”
Police Association president Steve Watt told 1News McSkimming was an “isolated case” and that he had confidence in the police leadership’s handling of the case.
“I absolutely agree with the commissioner’s comments. He’s hit the nail on the head. This is a disgraceful act conducted by one person, and should not tarnish the good work that our members do every day out there,” he said.
“Our members are deeply disappointed in what he’s done, particularly to the reputation of the police.”
As for McSkimming’s fate, he added: “There’s no bigger fall from grace. And a fall from grace that’s well deserved for the absolutely disgraceful acts in which he’s perpetrated.”
