Police officer charged – NSW

A 26-year-old police officer has been charged in New South Wales after he allegedly struck a teenage boy

on the head with a radio while he was handcuffed. The incident happened on June 21 last year near the

junction of Vernon and Dock Streets in Coffs Harbour, when the 17-year-old was arrested on an active warrant.

Delayed investigation

Despite the incident occurring in June 2022, Northern District officers did not begin their investigation into the assault allegations until September 2023. This delay has raised questions about the procedures followed in such cases, and the effectiveness of the accountability system within the police force.

Legal action

After more than a year of investigation, the officer was today served with a court attendance notice for causing injury. The officer is due to appear in Coffs Harbour Local Court on December 11. The charges include “hitting a 17-year-old boy on the head twice with a radio while he was handcuffed”.

Boy’s current status

NSW Police said the boy’s case had been concluded in the Children’s Court, indicating that legal action had been taken against him. The focus now remains on the legal action the accused officer will face.

Officer’s fate

NSW Police are considering whether to keep the officer in his job, which will depend on the outcome of the

investigation and the charges against him. The case raises concerns about police conduct and accountability in dealing with detainees.

Source.