I hope everyone has had a good Easter break and the bad weather did not impact your plans too much. I, like many, took a week off from work and enjoyed time with family.
Deb Hann
Let’s catch up on some recent good catches. Police were called to a male actively assaulting both a staff member and security at a local pub. On our arrival, the offender was found nearby. He was intoxicated, aggressive and non-cooperative. He was arrested and faced charges in court as a result.
In another incident, we received a report of a heated argument happening between a couple in a vehicle travelling in the Karāpiro area. The male had punched the female multiple times in the arm. When she exited the vehicle, the male then drove away. A full report was taken and the male, along with the vehicle were subsequently located. This interaction was beneficial as it enabled police to engage with the victim and uncovered additional instances of assault which had been previously unreported by her. The male was arrested and faces family harm charges in court accordingly.
Being a police officer requires ongoing upskilling and training, as well as regular recertification and qualification in different areas (eg use of OC spray, baton, handcuffing, taser and firearms). I have recently completed my regular firearms recertification to maintain my competency.
With duck shooting season approaching, I want to take the opportunity to remind all about the safe use of firearms. It is mandatory for first time firearms licence applicants – and those whose licence expired over a year prior – to complete and pass a firearms safety course. The cardinal rules of firearm safety apply in all situations however:
- Treat every firearm as loaded
- always point firearms in a safe direction
- chamber a cartridge only when ready to fire
- identify your target with certainty.
As well as what is above and around it (never fire based on movement or sound alone), store and transport firearms securely and with ammunition separate and finally drugs, alcohol and firearms do not mix.
Be sure that you are up to date on the legal requirements around the use and storage of firearms. Holding a firearms licence is a privilege that should be respected.
Senior constable Deb Hann inside the police station. Photo: Aaron Radford.
