Arrest made following party disorder

Rotorua Police have made an arrest as they piece together the disorder in Pretoria Street and King Street at approximately 11.20pm last Friday night (9 November).

A number of people who attended the party have been interviewed. However Police still want to hear from anyone in the area who witnessed any assaults, or has information about who was armed with objects to use as weapons. Police also want to know about any other victims of assault as a result of this disorder.

Detective Sergeant Staunton of the Rotorua CIB says: "Enquiries to date have established that there is a strong culture amongst the late teens to early 20 year olds to attend themed parties advertised on Facebook."

Some of these parties have got out of control with a mixture youth, alcohol and overcrowding leading to these parties spilling out onto the street where fights break out. This has given just cause for Police to close these parties down and then deal with the fall out.

Parents are encouraged to know where their teenagers are going and what their actual intentions are.

Organisers of youth parties especially where a fee is paid and or alcohol is available for consumption should be aware that offences are being committed against the Sale of Liquor Act 1989 and these persons maybe prosecuted or fined $40,000 per offence.

Police are available to provide advice to organisers and also want to know where and when these parties are in advance so that there can be a preventative presence by Police as opposed to enforcement.

The young man arrested as part of the disorder in King and Pretoria St has appeared in the Rotorua District court charged with a serious assault. It is alleged that this assault was retaliation for another party-goer being slashed with a broken bottle causing a significant facial injury that required a large number of stitches.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rotorua Police on 07 349 9400. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

ENDS

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