Off-duty cop spat on, kicked and punched at Cairns centre
Two teen girls have allegedly bashed an off duty police officer, security staff and retail workers at a Cairns shopping centre.
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A group of girls allegedly busted stealing from the Redlynch Shopping Centre have turned on authorities and bashed an off-duty police officer, security staff and retail workers.
Police allege at 5.15pm on Wednesday two girls, who were in the company of others arrived at the Larsen Road shopping centre and stole aerosol deodorant cans from a grocery store.
A staff member confronted the group before a 14-year-old Edmonton girl allegedly pushed them.
An off-duty female sergeant identified herself and was allegedly spat on, bashed and kicked while arresting the 14-year-old.
Police allege while this was unfolding outside Coles a 12-year-old Bentley Park girl jumped in and also punched, kicked and spat on the off-duty police officer.
Shopping centre security and other off-duty police officers came to the aid of the sergeant before two girls were taken into custody.
Inspector Jason Chetham said the off-duty officer did require medical treatment.
“She sustained a number of injuries, bruising and lacerations to her face and also to her hands,” he said.
“It was just outside the checkout area and I can see from the footage there was a lot of people there, so if you have something to add to the investigation, we would love to speak with you.”
Redlynch Shopping Centre tenant Shane Trimby of the Cairns Property Office said more patrols were needed at the centre.
“Police should be getting out of the car and walking through the shopping centre,” he said.
“Get some coppers back on the beat and it will make a big difference.”
A 12-year-old Bentley Park girl was charged with six offences, including stealing, common assault and serious assault police.
She is due to appear at Cairns Childrens Court at a later date.
A 14-year-old Edmonton girl was charged with six offences, including stealing, common assault and one count of serious assault police.
She was denied police bail and will appear in the Cairns Childrens court today.
Anyone with any information who witnessed the incident and hasn’t already spoken to police is encouraged to contact Policelink or Crimestoppers and quote QP2301486770.
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