On the Beat
The King Country Police have had a busy week, with several significant incidents addressed across the district.
Chris Aspin
- Police located an 18-year-old male unlawfully inside a vacant school building in Te Kuiti. Further inquiries confirmed he was responsible for wilful damage at Te Kuiti College earlier this month, where multiple windows were smashed. The individual has been charged and will appear in court next month.
- A 29-year-old male was arrested and charged following a family harm-related assault in Te Awamutu. The incident was dynamic and disturbing, with part of the offender’s ear bitten off during the altercation. Police are reviewing additional charges for other parties involved. It is always disheartening to find young children exposed to such violence. We remind the community to seek help or report any concerns about the safety of children or household occupants.
- Police are investigating two related arson incidents targeting public toilets in Ōtorohanga last Wednesday. Anyone with information is urged to contact local police.
- A 73-year-old male with a history of dishonesty offending was arrested after being observed interfering with parked vehicles in Ōtorohanga.
- A stolen Suzuki mud bike was recovered on Ngahape Road, Ōtorohanga. The bike, stolen last year, has been returned to its rightful owner in Ōhaupō.
- A 28-year-old male was arrested and charged in Te Kuiti after being found in public wearing gang insignia and a 37-year-old male was arrested in Ōtorohanga following a family harm-related assault last week. He faces charges of assault with intent to injure and assault with a blunt instrument.
- Staff responded to several reports of unsafe driving, including vehicles failing to stay in their lanes. We encourage the public to continue reporting unsafe or antisocial driving behaviour, remain vigilant and avoid distractions, especially use of cell phones while driving. Remember to take additional care on the roads with increased traffic volume over the summer period.
