Request from family of Opotiki homicide victim

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Standen, Eastern Area Manager: Investigations 
 
Police investigating the death of Brian Albert Hilton in Opotiki in July 2016 have today been contacted by family members of Mr Hilton. 
 
The family members are concerned at approaches being made to them by media, seeking comment on Mr Hilton’s death. 
 
The approaches made by media include one to a very elderly relative of Mr Hilton, who was very shocked and disturbed. 
 
Mr Hilton’s family have asked Police, on their behalf, to respectfully request that media cease attempting to contact family members, and respect their privacy at this time. 
 
A family spokesperson has provided the following statement, which she asked us to share: 
 
"Brian's family is pleased the police are committed to finding answers and holding whoever is responsible for Brian’s death to account. We wish the police well in pursuit of a resolution." 
 
At this stage, Police have no update to provide on the investigation into Mr Hilton's death. 
 
ENDS 
 
Issued by Police Media Centre.