Police arrest Gisborne teen accused of threatening to kill MP

Police allege the 19-year-old Gisborne man directed the threats to a MP over social media in March this year.

A teen has been arrested for making a series of death threats against a Member of Parliament.

Police allege the 19-year-old Gisborne man directed the threats over social media in March this year.

The man was arrested on Wednesday and has been charged with causing harm by posting digital communication, and threatening to kill.

He is due to appear in the Gisborne District Court on October 15.

Detective Inspector Warren Olsson said the nature and volume of the threats met the threshold for investigation and prosecution.

“Threats of violence are unacceptable and will be thoroughly investigated,” he said.

“The safety of all New Zealanders, including our elected representatives, is paramount, and nobody should be made to fear for their own safety.”

“We want to reassure the public that police take these matters seriously and will continue to hold offenders to account.”

Olsson said further arrests were likely.