Around 9.15pm last Friday night, Police responded to a triple zero call in Richmond Street, Woodburn. The Richmond Police describe what happened;

“On arrival Police were in discussion with a female at the location when a male aged 23 who was also present became irate with Police and the female and began to yell at them.  The males’ actions continued to escalate and eventually it became necessary for Police to detain him.

“As Police attempted to detain the male, he clenched his fists and it is alleged he swung at the Officers as they approached him. A physical confrontation has occurred between Police and the male and it is alleged that during the confrontation one of the Officers present was struck to the left side of the face by the male resulting in an immediate laceration and swelling to his face.  

“The Officers disengaged and Capsicum spray was deployed. Although the Capsicum spray was effective it still required a further physical confrontation before the male was restrained.

“Following the detention of the male it is alleged that he has then spat in the face of one of the Officers present as well as stomped on the foot of another.

“The male was subsequently conveyed to Lismore Base Hospital where he was left in the care of Hospital Staff for assessment.

“Following the release of the male from hospital he was later arrested by Police and was subsequently charged with the offence, Assault Police Officer in execution of duty causing Actual Bodily Harm and 2 x counts of Assault Police Officer in execution of duty without Actual Bodily Harm.

“The male has been granted conditional bail to appear before Ballina Local Court on 25 July 2024.”

The offender was released from hospital yesterday, and charges were subsequently delayed until his release. 

Bail restrictions protect the female at the scene, who has also been offered support.