A boy was arrested after allegedly escaping police custody and biting an officer in Gunnedah last week.
The disturbing incident follows a meeting between police, Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson and community leaders about a series of unverified home intrusions in Gunnedah.
About 7.20pm last Wednesday, officers attached to Oxley Police District executed a search warrant at a home in Gunnedah, and seized cannabis and weapons.
A 15-year-old boy pushed a police officer into a wall before fleeing into a nearby room after a struggle. It was alleged the boy punched another officer in the face before he was arrested and taken to Gunnedah Police Station.
Police stopped the vehicle en route to check the boy’s welfare when he escaped and ran from police.
Following a short foot pursuit, the boy was arrested again and taken back to the police vehicle when he allegedly bit a police officer on the arm.
He was charged with possess prohibited drug, two counts of assault police officer in execution of duty without actual bodily harm, assault police officer in execution of duty cause actual bodily harm, hinder or resist police officer in the execution of duty, prisoner escape from lawful custody, and breach of bail.
The boy was refused bail to appear at a children’s court last week.
The two police officers sustained minor injuries.
Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson was “deeply disturbed” by the break and enters in Gunnedah and said he met with police to see what further could be done.
“Our police work extraordinarily hard, but they need extra support,” Mr Anderson said.
“Gunnedah needs more police on the ground and that’s why I’m backing the local police association’s strength in numbers campaign.
“We need to be at the top of the list when it comes to increasing police numbers and I look forward to working with the police association locally to highlight the need for Gunnedah.
“The community has been calling for more police to be permanently stationed in Gunnedah and the government needs to listen.
“I have previously raised this issue with the Police Minister and will continue to fight for more police for Gunnedah.
“I’m incredibly frustrated that the good work done by police over the past few months to keep on top of crime, through targeted actions like Operation Mongoose has been undone by recent break and enters.
“Local residents are the eyes and ears of the community and the message from police is clear. Do everything possible to secure your premises and report any suspicious behaviour.
“Anything that doesn’t look right, regardless of the time of day or night, contact the police and help them help us.”
To report a crime, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
Read this week’s From the Mayor’s Desk here: Shocking lack of 24-hour policing – Gunnedah Times
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