Victoria’s corruption watchdog will oversee a police investigation into the leaking of photos of former AFL player and coach Dean Laidley as two more officers were suspended over the matter.
The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission says it will be “be keeping a close watch” on the investigation into the unauthorised disclosure of images of the 53-year-old former North Melbourne player as he was being interviewed at St Kilda police station a week ago.
It came as Victoria Police announced the suspensions of two more officers over the leaked photos, bringing the total to four.
Victoria Police said the two male senior constables were also expected to be charged with misconduct.
The photos were Laidley’s mug shot and one of him wearing a wig and dress as he was being interviewed by police after being arrested for stalking.
“As part of IBAC’s independent oversight of Victoria Police we have been liaising with police command on the scope of the investigation,” IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich QC said.
“Importantly, Victoria Police has confirmed they are looking at any underlying cultural issues, and how they can build on their work with the LGBTIQ community and ensure their officers have proper regard to human rights.
“While IBAC is satisfied that the investigation scope is sufficient, we will be keeping a close watch on progress, as part of our independent oversight of Victoria Police.”
Victorian Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton said earlier on Friday he was angry when he heard about the leak and any officers involved would be disciplined.
He called the behaviour an “act of gross stupidity” which stole media attention from a funeral for one of the police officers killed in the Eastern freeway crash.
Laidley is expected to ask for bail during a court appearance on Monday.
He was arrested outside a St Kilda home on Saturday night and charged with offences including stalking.
The 1996 North Melbourne premiership player was remanded in custody after appearing in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Sunday.
Australian Associated Press