Constable Rolfe’s father Richard Rolfe highlights ‘red flags’ surrounding son’s arrest

The father of Constable Zach Rolfe says the Chief Minister is attempting to ‘downplay the significance’ of community concerns surrounding the decision to charge his son with murder.

THE father of Constable Zach Rolfe says Chief Minister Michael Gunner is attempting to “downplay the significance” of community concerns surrounding the decision to charge his son with murder.

Speaking to the NT News, Richard Rolfe said the ICAC’s decision to consider an investigation into the matter was a clear sign there were “red flags”.

In an extensive radio interview on Tuesday, Mr Gunner said supporters of an independent inquiry – separate to one conducted by the office of the ICAC – into the charges being laid were “conspiracy nuts”.

It follows Constable Rolfe being acquitted over the shooting death of Kumanjayi Walker on Friday.

“It looks pretty damning for the Chief Minister and his school friend, the Police Commissioner (Jamie Chalker),” Richard Rolfe said.

Constable Zach Rolfe’s father Richard Rolfe says community concerns surrounding the decision to charge his son with murder are rife.

“An independent inquiry into the background of why Zach was charged would be a very sensible and logical approach.

“If the Chief Minister doesn’t believe that there are any red flags out there and he doesn’t believe that the money spent (on the case) – that is going to be paid for by Northern Territory taxpayers – (is unacceptable), well that’s his decision. But I couldn’t in good conscience think that was a wise decision.”

Mr Gunner also defended Mr Chalker’s performance in the job, strangely describing the top cop as a “straight shooter”.

The comments come amid growing support for Mr Chalker to resign, including from Richard Rolfe.