Emails Reveal Personal Tone Between Police Commissioner and Marokopa Doco Producer

Newly released emails show Police Commissioner Richard Chambers offered to "catch up over a meal" with a documentary producer just before the Tom Phillips investigation began.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 9, 2026, 6:26 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

"I Would Love to Catch Up": The Email Trail

The emails, dating back to late November 2024, show producer Karen Rutherford congratulating Chambers on his new role with the phrase "félicitations mon ami!"

The Invitation: Chambers responded to Rutherford’s outreach by suggesting a meal, stating, "I would love to catch up over a meal if you have time."

Timing: The exchange occurred during the weekend immediately preceding Chambers’ first official day as Police Commissioner.

The Pitch: Rutherford described the documentary as a "wonderful opportunity to showcase" the work of the NZ Police, eventually meeting with Chambers in his Wellington office on November 28, 2024.

The "Heads Up" Controversy