Teenage boys face charges following machete attack on Hamilton officer

Two juveniles arrested following an alleged attack on a Hamilton Police officer have been charged in relation to the incident.

Hamilton City Area Commander, Inspector Rob Lindsay, said the pair may face more serious charges depending on the outcome of interviews being carried out today.

The arrests follow officers being called to a Pukete address shortly before 5pm yesterday after reports of occupants of the home fighting with weapons.

"As our staff arrived those involved have stopped fighting and one has lunged at the officer with a knife, as he avoided that attack he has drawn his baton and it is that motion that has saved him from a machete swung by an offender who had come up from behind.

"The tip of the machete has struck the baton, deflecting it and saving the officer from harm. From there the Constable has used pepper-spray to disperse his attackers who fled into the house."

Mr Lindsay said officers at the scene had the full range of tactical options available to them and it appears they were put to good use.

"A voice appeal for those involved to come out failed and officers had to enter the house to ensure the safety of not only themselves but other occupants and the offenders as well."

"A taser was used to subdue one person and as a result of this incident a 16-year-old male faces a charge of aggravated assault while a 14-year-old boy has been charged with assault with a weapon."

Mr Lindsay said those involved in yesterday's incident had been drinking and there were concerns for Police in relation to people of the boys' age having access to alcohol.

"Our staff have dealt with a number of domestic violence incidents over the past few days and with the holiday period still having a way to go we're asking people to consider where their drinking is taking them?

"This incident could have and indeed was close to ending far worse than it did and we're urging people in stressful situations to take time out or to seek help before it gets out of hand and they find themselves facing serious consequences as these two lads are now."

The attacked officer suffered a black eye and did not require medical treatment, he resumed full duties following the incident and Mr Lindsay commended him for using those tactical options available to him correctly and with confidence.

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