Cops to meet with Carpentaria community leaders after arrest turns into violent melee

POLICE will meet with community leaders in the Carpentaria region after the arrest of a suspected drink driver turned into a violent melee

’We are also meeting with community and key stakeholders to raise key issues for discussion to improve understanding, and support of their local police.’

POLICE will meet with community leaders in the Carpentaria region on Tuesday after the arrest of a suspected drink driver turned into a violent melee at the weekend.

An NT Police spokesman said two officers were in the process of booking a 41-year-old man for medium range drink driving when he allegedly attacked them.

“A number of community members gathered and hindered the arrest, further assaulting the officers in the process,” he said.

“A traditional owner attended and was able to negotiate with the alleged drink driver to be arrested and submit to a breath test.”

The two arresting officers were still receiving treatment for their injuries at the local clinic on Monday and Senior Sergeant Tanya Woodcock thanks the TO for “her leadership in calming this incident”.

“It’s very disappointing when police are attacked while working to protect our community from harm,” she said.

The 41-year-old driver of the vehicle was charged with assaulting police and drink driving while two other men were charged with assaulting and hindering police and engaging in violent conduct.

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Sr Sgt Woodcock said another two men were handed notices to appear at court “for various disorder offences” and several others were yet to be spoken to.

“We are also meeting with community and key stakeholders to raise key issues for discussion to improve understanding, and support of their local police,” she said.

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