Coffs Harbour cop faces reckless wounding charge after allegedly assaulting 17yo boy during arrest

A Coffs Coast police officer will front court after he allegedly bashed a 17-year-old boy over the head repeatedly with a radio during an arrest. Here’s the details.

NSW Police Force. Generic file image. Picture: Thomas Lisson

A Coffs Coast police officer will front court after he allegedly bashed a 17-year-old boy over the head repeatedly with a radio during an arrest.

At about 4pm on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, officers apprehended the teenager at the intersection of Vernon and Duke Street, Coffs Harbour, after a warrant was issued for his arrest.

The boy’s matter has since been finalised in a children’s court.

In September 2023, Northern Region Command officers launched a probe after allegations surfaced the boy was assaulted during the arrest.

On Tuesday, a 26-year-old senior constable was issued with a court notice for reckless wounding and was ordered to face Coffs Harbour Local Court on Wednesday, December 11.

Police will allege in court the officer struck the boy in the head twice with a radio while he was being handcuffed.

The officer’s employment status is currently under review.

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