Charged after grabbing officer's taser

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

A man stopped for suspected drink driving allegedly grabbed a police officer’s taser gun and used it against him.

Inspector Lincoln Sycamore said the confrontation took place after a 21-year-old man was stopped for drink-driving in Childers Road, near the Stanley Road corner, at about 7.45pm on Saturday.

“It is alleged the man got hold of the taser from one of the officers and attempted to discharge it, which he was unable to do effectively.”

Inspector Sycamore said the taser was taken back from the man and he was arrested.

“One of the officers received some injuries, and needed a medical check before a return to work.

“We are pleased that the matter was resolved without significant injury, and that includes the man charged.

“The two officers involved did a good job dealing with a dynamic and fast- changing situation.”

The man has been charged with possession of police taser, assaulting a constable with a police taser, reckless driving, drink-driving (549mcg), assaulting a constable, and presenting a police taser at a constable, as well as assault with intent to obstruct.

He has made an initial court appearance on the charges.