Q+A with Jack Tame Andrew Coster: Trust, corruption allegations, and Jevon McSkimming
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Dec 6, 2025 
Andrew Coster, former New Zealand Police Commissioner, opens up about his resignation after a critical IPCA report on the Jevon McSkimming scandal. He reflects on his misjudgment in trusting McSkimming, whose disturbing online behavior shocked many. Coster acknowledges the failures within the police culture and his responsibility in the mishandling of misconduct complaints. He insists that key figures in government may have known more than they admit and expresses deep regret about the impact on the police's reputation and his own leadership.
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Trusted Colleague Turned Disgraced
- Andrew Coster describes Jevon McSkimming as a talented, trusted colleague who was innovative and good at his job.
- Coster says he learned of the computer findings through the media and was "gutted" for the organisation and colleagues.
Trust And Hierarchy Distorted Investigations
- Coster says trust in a senior officer coloured judgment across the organisation and impeded proper investigation.
- He regrets not recognising how hierarchy caused staff to tiptoe around inquiries into a senior officer.
Affair Disclosure And Missed Red Flags
- Coster recounts Jevon disclosing an affair he described as not work-related and being assured there was no work connection.
- Coster admits he trusted that explanation and did not dig deeper, later learning gaps in the account from the draft report.