The Northern Territory’s top cop has stepped down after reaching a private settlement with the government following weeks of speculation about his future.
The departure of Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker follows a lengthy court dispute after Mr Chalker was reportedly asked to resign this month while on leave after his bosses allegedly lost confidence in him.
His contract was not due to expire until November.
The announcement of his resignation came after Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker and the NT government resolved proceedings in the Supreme Court.
In a joint statement with the government on Sunday, Mr Chalker said it had been a privilege to work in the role, which he held for nearly four years after previously serving as a police officer for 25 years.
“It has been a tremendous privilege to have worked amongst the brave, hard-working women and men of the NT Police Force, Fire and Rescue Service, and Emergency Services, and an honour to have led them as they have tirelessly devoted their lives to making the Territory a better place,” Mr Chalker said.
“I want to wish all of my colleagues the very best in the future and thank them for their ongoing dedication to all Territorians. Personally, I am looking forward to the next chapter of my career and the opportunities that await.”
Details of the settlement have not been made public. The NT government said it could not comment on the settlement due to confidentiality obligations.
Court hearing avoided
Mr Chalker recently filed a motion against the NT government, Chief Minister Natasha Fyles and Police Minister Kate Worden to prevent his dismissal. His lawyer had requested a three-day hearing in the NT Supreme Court.
Mr Chalker stepped into the role of police commissioner in 2019, shortly before a police officer was charged – but then acquitted – over the shooting death of an Indigenous teenager.
Before his appointment, Mr Chalker had been based in numerous remote Aboriginal communities and ran investigations into homicide and organised crime while working as a police officer for more than two decades.
He was also awarded a medal for bravery and held several leadership positions.
As Police Commissioner, Mr Chalker served on various national law enforcement boards including as Chair and Deputy Chair.
Acting Commissioner Michael Murphy remains at the helm of the force.
-AAP
