Source: New Zealand Police
Police accept the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority following a disorder by a group of young men in Beachlands.
On 11 November 2023, Police were called following a complaint of a group of intoxicated men behaving in a disruptive manner, which led to officers failing to follow the correct process for issuing formal warnings.
Three officers responded, with nine others arriving to assist during the hour long incident.
The group was described as being extremely intoxicated, fighting with each other, and being belligerent towards Police.
After using a range of tactics in an attempt to control and defuse the situation Police arrested five young men.
One was charged with fighting in a public place and assaulting Police, and the other four were given formal warnings.
One of the officers allegedly kicked one of the young men involved, however there was insufficient evidence to substantiate this allegation.
That officer has since resigned from Police.
We note that the IPCA found Police largely acted within their powers when dealing with group.
Counties Manukau District Commander Superintendent Shanan Gray says Police agree the officers failed to follow the correct process when issuing the formal warnings.
“Work has been done since this incident to communicate with officers the importance of following our formal warning process requirements.”
ENDS.
Holly McKay/NZ Police