Assault charges at Otford

Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Chris Craner. 

TWO men have been charged after a police officer was injured during an arrest at Otford just before 6.30pm on Friday.

Wollongong police stopped a vehicle on Lady Wakehurst Drive at Otford.

Checks revealed the driver, a 29-year-old man, was disqualified from driving and had allegedly breached bail conditions. During the attempted arrest of the man it’s alleged he resisted officers before assaulting a senior constable. It’s further alleged the passenger, a 31-year-old man, repeatedly attempted to hinder police.

Both were subdued and arrested before being taken to Wollongong Police Station.

The 29-year-old man, from South Hurstville, was charged with assaulting a police officer, causing actual bodily harm, resisting arrest, driving while his licence was cancelled and breach of bail.

The older man was issued a court attendance notice for the offence of hindering police.

The police officer was taken to Wollongong Hospital suffering injuries to his face and hand.

Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Chris Craner said the incident shows the dangers police face daily.

“Our local police put themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis in an effort to prevent, disrupt and respond to crime in the Illawarra region,” Supt Craner said.

“Incidents like this highlight the very real risks they face.”