Auckland charged over swimmers death
Charges have been filed in the Auckland District Court this month in relation to the death of ocean swimmer Leslie Gelberger, who was thought to have been struck and killed by a 15-metre aluminium pilot boat in Auckland Harbour last April.
Following the grisly discovery of Mr Gelberger’s body, which was missing a leg, Police investigated the incident. However, after seeking legal advice from the Crown Solicitor, it decided late last year there was insufficient evidence to file criminal charges.
Nonetheless, Maritime New Zealand senior communications and media advisor Mark Dittmer confirmed his organisation has subsequently moved to bring charges against both PoAL and one of its staff.
“The charges are under Section 48 of the Health and Safety at Work Act and allege a failure to comply with a duty that exposes an individual to a risk of serious injury, serious illness or death,” says Mr Dittmer.
At the time of the incident, PoAL chief executive Tony Gibson said he was extremely upset that one of the port’s vessels may have been involved and he offered deepest sympathies to Mr Gelberger’s family and friends.
Originally from Canada, Mr Gelberger was a teacher and father of two.
Related Articles
WORLD
PORT & TERMINAL NEWS
PORT & TERMINAL NEWS