Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon cleared by police of making inappropriate donation

Thursday, 15 September 2016

A police investigation into an allegation Gisborne's Mayor attempted to influence voters through a $20 donation has ended with officers concluding there was 'absolutely no evidence' to support the claim.

Meng Foon is seeking his sixth term in next month's local body elections.

Gisborne Police said on Thursday they had concluded their investigation 'with no offence being substantiated'.

'Police spoke to numerous people identified as witnesses by the complainant in this matter,' detective sergeant Kevin Ford said.

'There is absolutely no evidence – or in fact any suggestion from anyone other than the complainant – that Mr Foon has in any way been trying to corruptly influence voters,' he said.

'There are also no legal issues with the circumstances surrounding $20 given to a person that Mr Foon has had an association with since childhood.'

 Ford said the giving of koha 'in correct legal circumstances and in accordance with Maori custom does not translate into an offence under the Electoral Act'.

 'It is disappointing that the complainant in this matter has continued to make allegations - and post inaccurate and inflammatory comments - on social media,' he said.

Police said many of those spoken to as part of the investigation had 'had expressed their anger at the allegations being made, and this matter is perhaps a useful reminder for people to be mindful of the information they post online, both in terms of accuracy and legality, and with regard to any subsequent comments others might make in response'.

Foon declined to comment when contacted.