Whanganui senior constable suspended over alleged drug dealer tips
Tuesday 8 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story NZME
Senior Constable Peter Gray, 61, has been suspended on full pay following allegations that he tipped off suspected drug dealers about planned search warrants. Gray is facing multiple court charges, including drug possession. The court has confirmed that name suppression is not in place for the officer.
Key facts
5 facts
- Peter Elliot Gray is a 61-year-old Whanganui senior constable.
- Gray is accused of using a computer system for dishonest purposes.
- The perverting the course of justice charge carries a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment.
- Gray is suspended from duty on full pay.
- The charges were filed in the Whanganui District Court late last year.
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Whanganui senior constable Peter Elliot Gray, 61, is facing multiple charges in court. He is accused of unlawfully searching a restricted database and alerting drug suppliers to planned police search warrants.
The charges include using a computer system for dishonest purposes and a representative charge of wilfully attempting to pervert the course of justice. These specific allegations relate to actions taken between 1 July and 16 July 2025.
Gray also faces charges for possessing a cannabis plant, two glass pipes used for smoking methamphetamine, and a cannabis pipe on 28 August 2025. He is currently suspended from duty on full pay.
The matter has been referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority. Gray is scheduled for a callover hearing on 21 October.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and Otago Daily Times.