The 'Louise Nicholas trial' - as it became known - was one of the most far-reaching, pivotal and politically important court cases in recent New Zealand history. Public interest in the complex and sorry tale was huge, and the findings of the subsequent Commission of Inquiry into Police Conduct were damning.
In this very important book Louise Nicholas tells her story - the sad story of a teenager whose abuse first began when she was a 13 year old and continued throughout her teens. It is written with award-winning journalist Philip Kitchin, whose investigations into the cover-up of Louise's complaints led to the establishment of Operation Austin. Louise's story is interspersed with Philip's exposition of his investigations into the case.
My Story is a rare insight into the mind of a woman who says she has suffered both child abuse and rape. It is a landmark book.
Hard to read this and come away without having the firm belief that every police officer in the NZ force wasn’t a sex offender or covering up for sex offenders in the force during the 80s & 90s. A horrifying account of Louise’s ordeal through the justice system and the reckoning she ultimately forced for the NZ police. I didn’t really enjoy how the book was set up though, with different chapters being written by one of the authors in tandem - it meant some parts were re-told though through the other’s eyes. Still such an important book.
This was an ore inspiring book of a very strong woman who fought for what was right and still got shafted. The four Police accused that got away with multiple rape charges, are scum of this Earth and I hope they burn in Hell; because that is where they are going in the future. Clint Rickards who was one of the Policemen involved in the rape of Louise Nicholas (the jury found them not guilty; read this book!!!) was stood down as the Assistant Commissar of Police, when this went to trial. He then handed in his notice before the Police Investigation could get under way. He is now practicing as a lawyer up North some where; not a lawyer I would trust with any of my court cases, (just saying). This is a must read and I would highly recommend it. Towards the end of the book you can see that NZ still have a way to go with the fair representation and protection of rape and sexual assault victims. (ie, The Roast Busters case). Work still needs to be done with representation, procedure changes, help available and the education of potential offenders of the harsh outcomes they will face when they are caught. People need to keep fighting to make this happen. Females do not be afraid to report any offence committed on you and never give up.
Story of a teenager who started getting abused by 3 policemen at the age of 13 and continued through her teens.
Not an engaging writing style, but the story of Louise Nicholas will definitely touch your hearts. The book will be a big inspiration for all the teenagers who go/have gone through similar life experiences. With the unconditional support of her husband, kids and parents and the investigative astuteness of Phil Kitchin, Louise is fighting back her life by trying to expose the sham masks of some good sheeps of the society. An average read but true, fascinating and motivating story.