Relationship Was a "Risk': Detective

By Elle Watson
Maitland Mercury
May 16, 2013

http://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/1506019/relationship-was-a-risk-detective/?cs=12

A state sex crimes detective said the relationship between Detective Chief Inspector Peter Fox and journalist Joanne McCarthy was a risk to the investigation into the alleged clergy child sexual abuse cover-up.

Detective Inspector Paul Jacob told the Commission of Inquiry he was advised of the relationship between the pair in December 2010, about the time Strike Force Lantle was established.

"It was a risk that needed to be managed in the investigation," Inspector Jacob, who was consulting Newcastle police conducting the investigation, said.

The Inspector has spent the morning in the witness box where he said he saw not "one bit of reluctance" by Newcastle police to investigate the matter.

He said it was "disturbing" the inquiry had heard such "inaccurate" views of Hunter investigators.

Inspector Jacob said Hunter detectives had an "outstanding record" having charged 14 clergy members with sexual abuse crimes.

Inspector Anthony Townsend is expected to take the stand later today.