NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman has announced the appointment of a current Supreme Court judge, Justice Peter Johnson, as Chief Commissioner and Anina Johnson as Commissioner of the State’s Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
“The LECC is an independent integrity body that provides oversight of the NSW Police Force and NSW Crime Commission,” Mr Speakman said.
“The LECC’s primary role is to detect, investigate and expose misconduct and maladministration within the NSW Police Force and the NSW Crime Commission.
“The two Commissioner structure provides a robust decision making process for the use of the Commission’s coercive powers, to advance its important work.”
Peter Johnson will commence a five-year appointment as Chief Commissioner on 4 July 2022, while Anina Johnson will commence her five-year term as Commissioner on 16 May 2022.
Mr Speakman said the new appointments bring a significant body of experience and knowledge to the LECC.
“Peter Johnson is an expert in criminal law, with an excellent understanding of the principles of good governance in policing and the changing nature of policing,” Mr Speakman said.
“He is a highly respected judge with outstanding knowledge and experience in criminal law.
“He brings to the role of Chief Commissioner 17 years of experience of decision making in criminal cases on the Supreme Court, as well as extensive experience in grappling with the issues related to police misconduct.
“Anina Johnson’s current role as Deputy President of the NSW Mental Health Review Tribunal requires significant decision-making capacity and the ability to use oversight and investigatory power judiciously.
“These skills will be an asset to the LECC and the critical work it undertakes in the public interest.”
The appointments replace the outgoing Chief Commissioner, the Hon Reginald Blanch AM QC, and the former Commissioner, the Hon Lea Drake.
Mr Blanch will continue as Chief Commissioner until Mr Johnson commences his appointment.
“I thank Mr Blanch and Ms Drake for their service,” Mr Speakman said.
“Both brought enormous experience and specialised skills to their roles and provided great leadership to the LECC.”
Be the first to comment