By Michael Morrah and 3news.co.nz staff
Michael Laws has issued a statement confirming an assault made on him and the ongoing police investigation.
Mr Laws says he was cowardly assaulted in Whanganui bar on Friday evening.
Mr Laws statement was released to answer “ongoing media enquiries” and to “stop media visiting my home”.
“I had entered the premises with a companion and exchanged pleasantries with a number of bar patrons at approximately 11.30pm on Friday evening. I was on my way home from attending another function.
“As I walked into the area of the bar where the band was playing, I was attacked from behind by an assailant. It was entirely unprovoked and I had neither exchanged words nor looks with this individual.
“According to witnesses, the person who attacked me was Pakeha and wearing a green and black hoodie that he used to purposefully conceal his identity. After the attack, he fled.
“I was not seriously hurt but sustained some damage to my right eye, cheekbone and mouth.
“I am aware that the police have launched an investigation and would like to thank the proprietor of the establishment for so actively assisting with their inquiry.
“I am not able to confirm rumours that the individual was a gang member although I would not be surprised. I have encountered continuing attempts to intimidate myself and my family since championing Wanganui’s anti-gang legislation.
“It has never intimidated me and neither will this. In fact, exactly the reverse. The person who did this was a coward.”
3 News