Nearly 100 responses flood in to police domestic violence inquiry

In the week after the Police Commissioner was grilled at an inquiry into police responses to domestic and family violence, 95 written submissions poured in.

THE Commission of Inquiry into police responses to domestic and family violence has received 95 responses since it sensationally reopened submissions after Commissioner Katarina Carroll gave evidence.

Ms Carroll was this month grilled at the inquiry and denied a widespread cultural problem with police. But she agreed there were issues relating to sexism, misogyny and racism.

After Ms Carroll gave evidence, DFV inquiry Commissioner Judge Deborah Richards said it was “necessary” to reopen submissions after current and former members contacted the inquiry.

Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll at the Commission of Inquiry into Queensland Police Service responses to domestic and family violence. Picture: Liam Kidston

In the week since the commission of inquiry made the announcement, it received about 95 written submissions and a number provided over the phone.

Deputy Commissioner Paul Taylor resigned a day after the inquiry heard he had referred to a gynaecologist friend as a “vagina whisperer” during a formal speech at a leadership conference.

Former Queensland deputy police commissioner Paul Taylor. Picture: Brian Cassey

The inquiry also heard another senior officer, Chief Superintendent Ray Rohweder, called out “did she shut her legs on you?”, after the emcee of a separate leadership conference joked about a “rough promotional process” while referring to a cut on his face.

Both Mr Taylor and Chief Supt Rohweder were dealt with at the time with “local managerial resolution”, which involved a discussion with a more senior officer about their behaviour.

Chief Supt Rohweder is on leave and the service has said Ms Carroll is seeking legal advice about the officer.

“The matter, pertaining to legal advice, remains under consideration and there is no update to provide at this time,” a QPS spokesman said last week.

Ms Carroll, who originally declined to attend the inquiry, could be recalled again after submissions close.

DFV command Assistant Commissioner Brian Codd was recalled to answer questions about the command as well as an alarming intelligence report that said victims were at risk of dying in the state’s Far North because of a lack of police action.

Assistant Commissioner Brian Codd. Picture: Liam Kidston

After reopening submissions, Ms Richards said: “The commission is particularly interested in any cultural or other issues that may be affecting the ability of officers to effectively undertake the important and onerous task of protecting our most vulnerable citizens.”

Any decisions on further public hearings will be made after September 5.

Submissions can be made confidentially via [e-mail]