Dale Geoffrey Cook: Investigators looking into ex-police officer speak to his former colleagues

Investigators looking into a former police officer charged with allegedly accessing child exploitation material have spoken with “many” of his ex-colleagues and acquaintances, police say.

An investigation into a former sergeant accused of accessing child exploitation material has progressed to the next level, Tasmania Police says

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1.01PM:

Former colleagues and acquaintances of an ex-police officer accused of accessing child exploitation material have been spoken to as part of a high-level investigation, Tasmania Police says.

Dale Geoffrey Cook has been charged with allegedly accessing child exploitation material and on February 26, a specialist team was appointed to lead an investigation into the former Launceston sergeant.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Rob Blackwood said the investigation team had engaged with “many people who either worked with Cook or knew him outside of his role as a police officer”.

An investigation into a former sergeant accused of accessing child exploitation material has progressed to the next level, Tasmania Police says

“The investigation team sincerely thanks each person that has come forward to provide information, either in person or through the reporting options provided below. Every piece of information has been of value and will inform the outcomes of the investigation,” he said.

“There are several avenues of inquiry outstanding, and the investigation team continues to work with oversight from the Integrity Commission to identify other [alleged] criminal offending or misconduct during Cook’s employment with Tasmania Police.”

Acting Deputy Commissioner Blackwood said investigators still wanted to hear from anyone “with information”.

“The specialist investigation team recognises the need to offer choice and confidentiality to anyone wanting to provide information,” he said.

If you have information that may prove useful to the investigation, you can:

– Send a direct email to the investigation team at [e-mail]

– Submit an online form which allows you the option of remaining anonymous, or providing your details if you are willing to be contacted.

– Submit a report to the Tasmania Police Professional Standards online portal.

– If you would like to meet in person, contact the investigation team at [e-mail] and they will arrange this at a time and place that ensures confidentiality.

May 1, 10.29AM:

About three tonnes of carrots have been cleared from the Bass Highway at Latrobe after motorists were warned to avoid the area until the unusual clean-up operation was completed.

The spillage created a traffic hazard at the roundabout intersecting the Bass Highway and Moriarty Rd.

About three tonnes of carrots have been spilt on the road at the roundabout at Bass Highway and Moriarty Road, Latrobe, prompting police to advise motorists to avoid the area. Picture: Facebook/Shea Edmunds

Tasmania Police said the carrots had fallen out of a truck’s carriage bin.

Drivers were asked to stay away until the scene was cleared and to “obey all diversions in place”.

At 10.35am on Thursday, police confirmed that the clean-up had concluded.