Man allegedly struck Northland police officer in head during arrest
A Northland police officer was struck in the head by a man resisting arrest on Saturday, police say.
A 38-year-old Far North man will appear in court today charged with assaults with intent to injure – first responder, escapes from police custody, resisting police, ill-treatment of an animal and two counts of burglary.
Kaitāia response manager Senior Sergeant Richard Garton said police were called to reports that a man had been “violently assaulting” a dog at a public park on Saturday morning.
Garton alleged the man fled through the Kaitāia CBD when he was told he was under arrest.
Police gave chase on foot.
“One of our staff caught up with the man and was in the process of taking him into custody when he has been struck to the head.”
Garton said police back-up helped restrain the man who allegedly continued resisting.
“Our officer is doing okay, after being checked over at hospital on Saturday, and has been cleared to return to work. We’re pleased he was not seriously injured as a result,” Garton said.
“Violence will not be tolerated in our communities or when it is directed to our staff.”
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.
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