Rapist may have worked four times as cell guard

A convicted rapist and former gang member used by Wellington police to guard a suicidal female inmate may have worked in cells four times before his criminal history was discovered. Police Minister Annette King and Wellington police area commander Peter Cowan admitted yesterday that police had erred by not verifying the man's credentials. Managers have now been told to vet personally all new security guards who work in police stations. However, they shifted much of the blame to the security firm – Specialised Guarding Services – which supplied the staff. Police are considering laying charges. The company is co-owned by former National Party candidate Dale Stephens, a former police officer of 22 years who also worked as a presenter on the Crimewatch television show.

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