Four members of the public came to the assistance of two police officers trying to arrest a man during a violent confrontation at Brunswick Heads yesterday, NSW Police say.
Police were told about 2pm today, a man was found by an airport employee sitting inside a light aircraft at Tyagarah Airfield, near Brunswick Heads.
The man later left the scene and police from Tweed / Byron Local Area Command were contacted and began patrolling for the man.
Two officers located the man about 5pm, walking along Gulgan Road and attempted to speak with him.
Capsicum spray was used after the man allegedly became violent and resisted police attempts to move him off the road.
The man ran from the officers and allegedly punched a Senior Constable in the face and head several times after she attempted to restrain him.
The man continued to resist and a Taser was deployed by another Senior Constable without effect.
Four members of the public saw what was occurring and came to the officers’ assistance before further police arrived.
A 38-year-old man was arrested and taken to Byron Bay Police Station where he was charged with several offences including:
- Assault occasioning actual bodily harm upon Police Officer;
- Assault Police;
- Resist Police;
- Hinder Police (x2);
- Possess prohibited drug; and
- Enter enclosed lands.
The man was refused bail to appear before Byron Bay Local Court today tomorrow and further charges are expected to be laid in relation to the incident at Tyagarah Airfield.
A Senior Constable suffered bruising and swelling to her face, head and chest. She was taken to Byron Bay Hospital by NSW Ambulance Paramedics for treatment and was later released. Another Senior Constable suffered a laceration to his ear and soreness to his chest.
Tweed / Byron Local Area Commander, Detective Superintendent Wayne Starling said the actions of the members of the public during this incident are commendable.
“I’m heartened by the community support these four men offered the police and I would like to personally thank them for coming to the assistance of my officers.” said Det Supt Starling.
