Media statement
For immediate release
Tuesday, 26 June 2007

Jammed rifle all that saved police officer’s life

United Future leader Peter Dunne today broke the news in Parliament that one of the officers at the centre of the ‘Grand-Theft-Auto’ style rampage in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, is lucky to be alive.

“One of the 14 year olds standing 5 metres from the police officer, pointed the rifle at him, pulled the trigger, and the only reason that officer is alive today is because the rifle jammed,” alleged Mr Dunne.

Mr Dunne’s version of events was confirmed in the House by the Minister for Child, Youth and Family, Ruth Dyson.

“It’s truly disturbing that Child, Youth and Family have to deal with young offenders who are willing and able to shoot an unarmed police officer in cold blood.

“I think people will be asking whether the current systems adequately balance the need to protect public safety, with the goals of rehabilitating youth offenders.

“Perhaps a greater focus needs to be placed on security, given the recent escalating violent behaviour seen recently from young offenders,” says Mr Dunne.

Mr Dunne will now await with interest the result of the police enquiry into events.

ENDS

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