Partying youths hit officer

CHB officer in charge Sergeant Neil Baker says police are disappointed with the behaviour with a group of youths at a party in Nelson St, Waipukurau, in the early hours of Sunday morning

Police and St John Ambulance staff were called to a large party where a report had been made of a person being hit with a hammer.

Upon arrival police were confronted with a group of 60 to 80 young people, most of whom were heavily affected by alcohol.

As police attempted to break up several fights and find the victim, a female officer was punched by some of the group. No serious injury was suffered by the officer, but this quickly developed into a tense moment for staff, while assistance quickly came from other local and Hawke’s Bay police. Two people were arrested for disorder and an unrelated arrest warrant, and inquiries will continue to find those responsible for assaulting the officer.

A male who was reportedly hit over the head with a metal bar was taken by ambulance to Hawke’s Bay Hospital, with initial reports of him being in a stable condition.

Sergeant Baker says “This is extremely disappointing that police officers are treated this way in our community when they are doing so much great work to keep us all safe.

“We will not stand for this sort of behaviour and persons responsible for this incident can expect a visit from police soon.” Any witnesses to the incident are urged to come forward, while parents are being encouraged to speak to their children who may have been present.