A police officer was assaulted and had car keys stolen during a traffic stop at Port MacDonnell yesterday afternoon.
Just before 4.15pm on Monday 24 August, the officer was conducting speed detection duties on Sea Parade when a white Hyundai hatchback was detected travelling at 64 km/h in a 50 km/h zone.
The driver was stopped and returned a positive roadside drug test result for methamphetamine. Checks also revealed he was driving while suspended. He was subsequently arrested.
The 22-year-old man allegedly violently resisted arrest before kicking the officer. An 18-year-old female passenger then allegedly assaulted the officer by punching and kicking him as he attempted to bring the man under control.
The woman then left the scene and allegedly stole the keys to the patrol vehicle.
Mount Gambier patrols attended and assisted the officer, who was being helped by a member of the public. The officer was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
About 9.45pm that night, the woman was located at a Port MacDonnell address and arrested. The stolen patrol vehicle keys were allegedly located during a search.
Police would like to thank the member of the public and witnesses for their assistance during the incident.
The 18-year-old woman was charged with hindering police, theft and assaulting a prescribed emergency services worker.
The 22-year-old man was charged with exceeding the speed limit, drug driving, driving while suspended, resisting police and assaulting a prescribed emergency services worker.
Both the man and woman were refused police bail and are expected to appear in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court today.
C02600035975
