On the Beat
King Country police experienced a steady week, with officers attending several family harm incidents across the district.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available, and police can assist with connecting people to appropriate services.
We have also received an increase in reports of scam text messages claiming unpaid fines or toll fees, often with links requesting payment. We strongly advise people not to respond or click on these links. Many of these messages come from overseas numbers (not starting with +64). If you are unsure, please check with family, friends, or police.
During a family harm incident in Waitomo, Police arrested a 38-year-old man who had an active warrant for his arrest. He was identified as the predominant aggressor and was transported to Hamilton custody without incident.
Police also followed up on reports from a concerned member of the public of unsafe driving.
The driving behaviour was considered dangerous and posed a risk to others. The vehicle was impounded, and the driver has been summoned to court for dangerous driving.
While attending a family harm incident in Te Kuiti, Police identified that one party was experiencing a mental health episode. After consulting with mental health services, officers assisted with transporting the man to the Henry Bennett Centre for assessment and support.
Police arrested and charged a 21-year-old man with burglary after he allegedly shoplifted from a Te Kuiti store while subject to an active trespass notice. Bail was opposed, and he has been remanded in custody to appear in court later this month.
Last weekend police responded to calls for a male assaulting a female at the campground in Kawhia. Members of the public intervened and separated the pair.
Police arrived at the scene and arrested the 36-year-old male, from out of district, for assault. Sgt Heyden Nunn would like to address that the Kawhia based constable was on holiday and out of district at the time of this incident, and policing cover from Ōtorohanga was in place.
Finally, a 56-year-old man in Ōtorohanga was charged with committing an indecent act in a public place and will appear in court later in April.
Thank you for your continued support. Please keep reporting crime, unsafe driving, and suspicious behaviour.
