Police have arrested and charged a 19-year-old Gisborne man in relation to a series of death threats made against a Member of Parliament earlier this year.
The threats were received in March 2025 and were directed at the MP over a social media platform.
The man was arrested on Wednesday [8 October] and has been charged with causing harm by posting digital communication, and threatening to kill. He is due to appear in the Gisborne District Court on 15 October.
Detective Inspector Warren Olsson says the nature and volume of the threats were such that this case met the threshold for investigation and subsequent prosecution.
“Threats of violence are unacceptable and will be thoroughly investigated. The safety of all New Zealanders, including our elected representatives, is paramount, and nobody should be made to fear for their own safety," he says.
“We want to reassure the public that Police take these matters seriously and will continue to hold offenders to account."
The Police investigation into the online threats is continuing, with further arrests likely.
As this case is before the court, Police are unable to comment further.
ENDS