The investigations into the conduct of suspended Victoria Police Chief Frank Elsner have received a 27-day extension.
On Wednesday, Police Complaint Commissioner Stan Lowe said the investigative team has until Feb. 24 to complete its work.
It’s the fourth extension granted in the investigations, which began after Elsner admitted to sending inappropriate messages to a colleague’s wife.
Chief Superintendent Sean Bourrie confirmed the team has completed 200 investigative tasks to date, including 82 interviews.
The team has two tasks left – obtaining clarification from the original investigator and further information relevant to the review of emails.
Bourrie also said the team requires more time to complete the reports, which are roughly 300 pages each.
According to Lowe, under the Police Act the commissioner can grant an extension if he’s satisfied that new investigated leads are discovered that couldn’t have been revealed with reasonable care, the case or investigation is “unusually complex,” or the extension is in the public interest.
“I am of the opinion that it is in the public interest that this matter continues to be investigated as thoroughly as possible,” Lowe said. “This is a complex investigation that involves several allegations and a significant body of evidence.”
Elsner remains suspended with pay from the Victoria Police Department.
