A 43-year-old Taumarunui man was to appear in court this morning on excess breath alcohol and wilful damage charges after crashing his vehicle through the front doors of Taumarunui Police station in the early hours of today.
No-one was injured during the incident, which happened just before 1am. The station was closed at the time and no staff were inside.
Wanganui Area Commander Inspector Steve Mastrovich said Police in the town were already responding to reports of the man driving at speed up and down the town's main street just before the incident occurred. After the vehicle crashed through the front doors and into the foyer area of the Police station, the man ran off, but was apprehended by Police a short time later.
Mr Mastrovich said the man was heavily intoxicated at the time and it was unclear what his motivation was.
"We are still making inquiries into what happened, and encourage anyone in the community who may have seen or heard anything at the time to get in touch with us."
Mr Mastrovich said Police would be reviewing security measures at the station following the incident, which had caused an estimated $10,000-$20,000 worth of damage.
"The station has been there more than 20 years, but this is the first time anything like this has happened."
The station is undergoing repairs today which are expected to be completed by this evening.
ENDS
Media contact: Ross Henderson, PNHQ Public Affairs, ph 04 470 7316.
