A Rotorua police officer is injured after attending a party at a Logan Street address following reports of fighting and drunkenness overnight.
Approximately 100 youths were at the address and when police officers began to move the partygoers fighting broke out amongst the crowd. Fireworks were thrown at police and the injured officer was knocked to the ground from behind while attempting to arrest one of those throwing fireworks.
The officer suffered lacerations to the face and eye but is expected to return to duty tonight.
Senior Sergeant Dennis Murphy has described the actions of those at the party as “an extremely dangerous, stupid and criminal act.”
Senior Sergeant Murphy also highlighted the young age of many of those at the party, reminding those who supply alcohol to under-age persons to think through the consequences of their actions.
An 18-year-old male is to be charged with disorderly behaviour in the Rotorua District Court next week in connection with the incident.
3 News