Officer 'ignored radio call to issue speeding ticket'

A police officer on traffic duty ignored urgent radio calls for back-up to investigate reports of armed people acting suspiciously so he could continue to issue a speeding ticket, Winston Peters claimed yesterday.

The New Zealand First leader's allegation came after he received a letter from the speeding ticket recipient - a former police officer living in Takapuna.

Evan Jenkins wrote that after his experience he believed criticism about police over-emphasis on ticket collection was justified.

Mr Jenkins, who got a $170 ticket, heard the call come over the police radio and said the incident being investigated was less than a kilometre from where he was being ticketed.

"The caller was asking for back-up assistance and sounded anxious. However, the constable did not respond to answer the call but continued for the next 10 minutes to take my details, check my car and write a report."

Mr Peters said the story was further proof that traffic patrol funding was ringfenced and the patrols were being discouraged from attending emergencies.

But Justice Minister Phil Goff, speaking on behalf of Police Minister George Hawkins, said a preliminary check on requests for back-up assistance at the time and date mentioned by Mr Jenkins had not been able to identify any.

However he was willing to investigate further if more specifics were to be provided.

"In terms of firearm incidents, I can advise that there was an alleged incident that was attended.

"It turned out to be someone practising with a BB pistol at the back of a Liquor King outfit and maybe that is the event he is mistaking this for."