I didn't nark, says medals go-between

Daniel Crichton. Photo / NZ Herald

Drug accused tells of threats over claim he 'ratted' on museum-raid suspects

The man who was bailed in return for helping to recover war medals stolen from the Waiouru Army Museum says he never "narked" on the alleged thieves.

In prison on drugs charges, Daniel Crichton was bailed in January last year after organising the return of a George Cross medal as "a sign of good faith".

The rest of the stolen medals, including nine Victoria Crosses, were returned four weeks later.

Two men have subsequently been charged with the burglary and have name suppression.

Crichton has pleaded not guilty to charges of supplying methamphetamine and will stand trial in the High Court at Auckland next week.

However, Crichton was "devastated" by rumours that he was a police informant who provided evidence against the two men charged with the heist.

Crichton said that as a result of a Sunday News article accusing him of being a "medal rat", he had received death threats, been shot at and was forced to send his children away for their safety.

"Where's the proof? I never gave anyone up. In my world, being called a rat is the worst thing that you can be called. Like a child molester. It's right up there. I'd rather be stabbed than called a nark."

Crichton said he wanted recognition for his role in the return of the medals - including a cut in any possible jail time.

"The general public might see it differently. But I think I'm within my rights to not spend another day in jail. That's being honest, I don't think I should go back to jail."

Police correspondence seen by the Herald in March 2008 shows Crichton was told there was "no doubt" he could expect further leniency if he lived up to his word and got the thieves to return the rest of the medals.

"Should Mr Crichton be successful or largely successful [in returning the medals] ... then he will no doubt be the recipient of further consideration from the courts in the event of his conviction and subsequent sentencing," wrote Detective Inspector Bruce Good.

However, Crichton said the police were now downplaying his role.

"People can say what they want. Facts are facts. I got one medal back. A few weeks later, the rest are returned exactly as I said they would."

Police have declined to comment.