The Police Officer attacked in Mangawhai on Saturday afternoon is recovering after surgery in Northland Hospital.
Senior Constable Graham Gough was struck over the head with an iron bar while making inquiries into a complaint of disorder at a private address. The Constable was working alone at the time and managed to call for urgent assistance after being attacked.
He was flown to Northland Hospital and underwent surgery for a severe head wound.
Police Commissioner, Rob Robinson, visited Constable Gough and his family last night in Northland Hospital. Commissioner Robinson had a discussion with the Constable and was relieved with the recovery he was making.
District Commander, Superintendent Roger Carson and Area Commander, Inspector Janet Hope were also at the Hospital.
“We’ve spoken to Constable Gough, it was a relief to see the recovery he is making after such an unfortunate incident,†says Superintendent Carson. “An incident like this leaves us shocked, we are a tight knit family and so the Commissioner and District staff are here to support Constable Gough and his family,†says Superintendent Carson.
Constable Gough has been an officer for 32 years. “He has worked in a number of small stations and I regard him very highly,†says Superintendent Carson. “Staff like Constable Gough work in isolated areas and are chosen for their ability to be resourceful and to make assessments of situations, as back up is not close by. The Constable knew the person he was approaching and made an assessment, but events unfolded fast in an unexpected fashion,†says Superintendent Carson.
A 19-year-old male has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He will appear in the North Shore District Court on Monday morning.
All media inquiries including the condition of Constable Gough to
Jayson Rhodes
Communications Manager
North Shore/Waitakere/Rodney Police District
027 281 0271