KEY POINTS:
A top detective has been rebuked by his boss for apparently telling an Asian crime conference that "people who could be blindfolded with a shoelace" could not be trusted.
Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Grimstone from Counties Manukau police is also said to have made derogatory remarks about the appearance of Green Party MP Sue Bradford.
It is understood Mr Grimstone was a speaker at the conference on Chinese organised crime held by police national headquarters in Wellington last month.
Mr Grimstone did not return calls from the Herald yesterday but told the Sunday News he apologised and deeply regretted the remark.
The head of Counties Manukau police district, Superintendent Steve Shortland, said in a media statement: "The comments made at the conference were totally inappropriate and unacceptable. These were remarks made by an individual, despite being advised not to, and in no way reflect the values of the New Zealand Police.
"We are working hard to build and sustain relationships within our communities and comments like this set us back ...
"The matter is now the subject of an internal disciplinary inquiry to determine what action will be taken."
National Party MP Pansy Wong said Asians were "less than forthcoming" in reporting crime and the comment could make the situation worse.
Mrs Wong said she also worried about the impact the comment would have on the morale of Asian police officers.
