Dog control arrest

The ability of Police staff to subdue an armed offender who confronted them during a dog seizure is testament to the quality of those staff and the tactical options available to them according to one senior Hamilton officer.

City Tactical Coordinator, Senior Sergeant Freda Grace, says officers went with Hamilton City Council Animal Control staff to assist with the seizure of some dogs at a Beatty St address on Wednesday.

"On their arrival they were confronted at the front entrance to the home by an allegedly aggressive and confrontational male who presented a hunting bow at the officers that had three arrows attached.

"The offender then retreated inside the house, slamming and locking the door and tried to flee via the back door."

Freda says the man was trying to evade the police when he encountered officers blocking his way at the back door and retreated inside where he continued to threaten and assault Police staff.

"The man was eventually subdued by the officers in a situation where pepper spray was used and a Taser presented. Given his level of resistance and his alleged threats to kill officers his arrest without serious injury to either the offender or Police staff is a credit to those involved.

"Bought back to the Hamilton Central Police Station the man was informed the Police doctor was not available to medically examine him for any injury and the man declined an offer by our staff to be transported to hospital for a check-up."

Freda says the man appeared in the Hamilton District Court yesterday on charges of threatening to kill or do grievous bodily harm, resisting Police and possession of an offensive weapon.

"He was bailed to reappear later this month. Yesterday’s incident highlights the high level of training available to our staff and the value behind the range of tactical options available to them as a situation escalates or de-escalates and the calibre of those officers involved who adapted to these changes."

Source: Waikato Police.