In a shocking revelation, South Australia’s Police Commissioner, Grant Stevens, has come forward to admit that he is under investigation for accidentally firing his gun during a heroin raid over 30 years ago.
The incident, which occurred in the early 1990s, has raised questions about whether someone is trying to undermine Stevens’ position.
What Happened During the Raid?
Stevens explained that the incident happened when he was a young investigator with the Elizabeth CIB, and he was part of a team conducting a raid on a known drug offender who was dealing in heroin.
As they tried to force entry into the house, Stevens accidentally discharged his firearm. Luckily, no one was injured, and his supervisor was present at the time. A report was filed, and Stevens received managerial guidance.
A Second Alleged Incident?
There were reports of a second accidental shooting incident, but Stevens has denied this, stating that there was only one incident.
He said, “I’ve never resiled from the fact that this incident happened.
I’ve actually relayed the story on occasions over the last 34 years for different reasons to let other police officers understand how fragile circumstances can be and accidents do happen.”
Is Someone Out to Get Him?
When asked if someone was trying to undermine him, Stevens said, “That might be the case.”
He also mentioned that the inquiry into the incident was “very detailed” and that it was clear that the person who released the information had access to records or was present at the time of the incident.
Stevens, however, does not consider the revelation damaging and believes that it serves as a lesson to the community that policing has inherent risks and mistakes can happen.
An Investigation 30 Years On
The incident has led to a formal inquiry, with the Ethical and Professional Standards Branch assessing the complaint.
Stevens has said that he is happy to cooperate with the investigation and has already spoken about the incident publicly.
He believes that the incident was handled in accordance with procedures at the time and that he was held to account for his actions.
What’s Next?
The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what the outcome will be. One thing is certain, though – the incident has raised questions about the culture of policing and the risks that officers face every day.
As Stevens said, “Policing has inherent risks in it. Mistakes do happen. We are accountable for our mistakes, no matter what role you have in SAPOL.” The incident has also sparked a wider debate about police accountability and the need for transparency in law enforcement.