Christchurch councillor denies wrongdoing over late-night texts

From Checkpoint, 5:24 pm on 23 September 2019

A Christchurch Councillor has identified himself as the person at the centre of an investigation into misconduct allegations involving interactions with young people but Councillor Deon Swiggs has denied any wrongdoing.

The three complainants, aged between 13 and 21 at the time, say Mr Swiggs engaged in 'grossly inappropriate' late-night messaging on social media on numerous occasions and insisted on hugs instead of handshakes.

But in a statement this afternoon, Mr Swiggs denied the allegations saying he welcomed a full investigation into the complaints and would fully co-operate with the inquiry.

Conan Young spoke exclusively with the youngest complainant, whose voice we've altered to protect his identity.