Queensland Police Deputy Commissioner Paul Taylor quits over ‘lewd’ comment

One of Queensland’s most senior police officers has resigned after referring to a friend, a gynaecologist, as a ‘vagina whisperer’ at a leadership conference.

Deputy Commissioner Paul Taylor has resigned, expressing his remorse over comments at a police leadership conference. Picture: Stewart McLean

One of Queensland’s most senior police officers has resigned and spoken of his remorse over a lewd comment he made at a leadership conference.

Deputy Commissioner Paul Taylor announced his immediate resignation after his remarks were cited as an example of poor police culture at a domestic and family violence inquiry.

Mr Taylor had in a speech at the police leadership conference referred to a friend, a gynaecologist, as a “vagina whisperer”.

Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll. Picture: Liam Kidston

The incident – and another involving a now-chief superintendent – emerged as commissioner Katarina Carroll was grilled on Thursday about whether her service had a problem with sexism, racism and misogyny.

“I have been a dedicated member of the organisation for 45 years and cherished my time serving the community,” Mr Taylor said on Friday.

“Yesterday, an incident I was involved in at a conference was brought to the attention of the Commission of Inquiry into QPS responses to domestic and family violence.

“I am devastated about the impact this has had on the reputation of the service, because it does not reflect my values, nor those of the organisation.

“It was never my intention to offend anyone, and I am deeply apologetic for the harm it has caused. I was remorseful immediately after the incident, and the commissioner addressed the matter with me soon after.

“In the past two to three years, the service has undergone an incredible amount of change to enhance our culture, processes and how we deliver services.”

The issue was initially dealt with by managerial guidance, but Mr Taylor said he felt compelled to resign after it emerged at the inquiry.

Ms Carroll told the inquiry that Mr Taylor had been speaking about a gynaecologist and obstetrician who was a global leader in the field, and who was a friend of the deputy.

Ruth O’Gorman. Picture: Liam Kidston

When counsel assisting the inquiry, Ruth O’Gorman, said that didn’t make it OK, Ms Carroll responded: “No it doesn’t, I was just giving you context.”

The inquiry was also told that at a separate conference attended by senior police, the master of ceremonies referred to stitches on his face and made a comment about being through a “rough promotional process”.

A superintendent in the audience – since promoted to chief superintendent – called out: “Did she shut her legs on you?”

Mr Taylor said the public “should have confidence that this is a great organisation, with terrific people who care so much about the community across the vast state”.

“I have given my heart and soul to the QPS and I will forever be proud of what I have achieved in my career. I am extremely grateful to have worked with you all,” he said.