Senior Qld police officer resigns over obscene comments

One of Queensland’s top police officers has resigned after a public inquiry into the state’s sexist police culture exposed lewd and offensive comments about women.

Deputy Commissioner Paul Taylor’s misogynistic comments referring to “vaginal whispering” came to light on Thursday at the Queensland Police Service’s Commission of Inquiry into Domestic and Domestic Violence Responses.

This was one of two embarrassing and offensive public comments that came to light when the Commission investigated Queensland Police’s troubling culture.

The second officer involved is named in media reports as Chief Superintendent Ray Lawwedder.

In a statement released on Friday, Taylor ended his 45-year law enforcement career with immediate effect.

“I’m devastated about the impact this has had on the service’s reputation because it doesn’t reflect my values ​​or the organization’s values,” he said.

“I didn’t mean to offend anyone. I deeply apologize for the damage it caused. I reflected immediately after the incident and the commissioner quickly addressed the matter with me.”

Taylor said the organization has undergone an incredible transformation in recent years to cope with the QPS culture.

“The public should be confident that we are a great organization with great people who care so much about communities across this vast state,” Taylor said.

“I have given my heart and soul to QPS and I am forever proud of what I have achieved in my career.”

He also thanked his colleagues for their continued support.

“We are very grateful to have worked with all of you and know that you will continue to do a great job keeping Queenslanders safe.”

His resignation came after Commissioner Catalina Carroll was harshly criticized in the investigation and admitted that Taylor’s comments were unacceptable.

Police said they would not comment on Lawwedder.

“The member has internally discussed the evidence from the Commission of Inquiry with a fellow QPS member. He does not wish to make any further comments on the matter,” the statement said.

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