Police acknowledge the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority into the use of force during an arrest in Whangārei.
On 10 January 2023, a vehicle fled from Police and two men then fled on foot through an area of mangroves.
A Police dog handler used his Police dog to track the two men, along with two officers, one of who carried a sponge round launcher slung across his front.
One of the men was then spotted and attempted to run from Police and the dog was released.
The man suffered a bite, which the Authority concluded was justified.
However, the officer carrying the sponge round claimed the man was resisting arrest and subsequently delivered a palm strike to the man's face to distract him.
During the process of being arrested, the man also received a wound (consistent with the barrel of the sponge round launcher) to the top of his head.
The Authority concluded the officer's palm strike was not justified and felt the injury to his head was not accidental, which constituted an unjustified use of force.
Northland District Commander Superintendent Matt Srhoj says Police completed their own investigation and the officer was charged with assault with a weapon.
"We note the jury was unable to reach a decision during the first trial and following a second trial, the officer was acquitted of the charge.
"A confidential employment process was then undertaken and the officer remains employed with Police."
Superintendent Srhoj says Police can always learn from situations such as this one.
"We will continue to investigate and take action where necessary to ensure our people, and the wider community, are kept safe."
