Waikato Police are reviewing security arrangements at the front counter of Hamilton Central police station following a serious assault on a police officer on Sunday evening.
The incident happened about 7.55pm in the front counter area of the station, after a man began acting erratically while staff were attempting to help him with a query. A scuffle followed in which an officer suffered a fractured cheek, cuts and bruises, before the man was subdued by Police staff. The officer was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment and is now recovering at home.
A 20-year-old man is in custody and has been charged with injuring with intent, wounding with intent and burglary following the incident. He is expected to appear in court today.
As a result of the incident, the front counter of Hamilton Central police station will be closed to the public from 7pm every evening until 7am the following morning while a safety review of the area is carried out.
“The safety of our staff and visitors is of paramount importance and is a real priority for Police,” says Superintendent Bruce Bird, Waikato District Commander.
“While we want to make our front counters areas where the public can visit, we must also ensure that these are safe places for the public and for our staff to work.
“Until we have identified any safety measures we need to take, the front counter will be closed to the public during these hours. Police staff will however remain working in the station during these times.
“Anyone requiring urgent assistance should call 111,” said Mr Bird
Last month police announced that a review had highlighted a number of police stations where immediate practical steps were needed to increase security. This work is ongoing, and in some cases involves limiting public access at some stations while necessary security measures are implemented.
The incident at Hamilton Central police station comes after another serious assault on a police employee at Counties Manukau police station which took place last month.
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Media contact: Ross Henderson, PNHQ Public Affairs, ph 021 192 2919