A Christchurch Police officer will require surgery for a broken nose after being attacked when he tried to stop an assault on a teenage girl in Riccarton last night.
The male officer, a sergeant, suffered a broken nose and lacerations to his face and ear after he was set upon by a group of teenagers.
He was admitted to hospital and discharged after treatment, but will require further treatment for his broken nose. The officer’s prescription glasses were also broken during the assault.
Senior Sergeant Corrie Parnell says the incident occurred after Police had attended a party at an address in Riccarton Road at around 10.30 pm last night [Friday 23 May].
“Police had dealt with the issues at the party and were preparing to leave when the sergeant saw a male assaulting a teenage girl.
“He immediately intervened but the offender resisted arrest – and the girl who was the subject of the assault began attacking the officer, punching and kneeing him in the head.
“She was joined by several other girls who continued the attack until other officers could come to the sergeant’s aid.”
Two offenders were arrested at the scene. A 17-year old male has been charged with assaulting a female, resisting arrest, and assault a police officer, and will appear in court on Tuesday. A 14-year old female has been charged with assault with intent to injure, and will appear in Youth Court.
Senior Sergeant Parnell says the officer has been stood down from duty and is recovering at home.
“This kind of attack on officers who are trying to protect victims and members of the public is absolutely senseless,” he says.
“Not surprisingly, alcohol was a major factor. Alcohol is often behind this sort of violence and disorder and in this incident most of those involved were showing high levels of intoxication.”
ENDS
Media contact:
Senior Sergeant Corrie Parnell will be available AFTER 4.00PM today via Christchurch Police, ph. (03) 3637400.