Police Snippets

Multiple charges
Police were called to the streets of Wellsford in early August following reports that an axe-wielding male was threatening residents on a Rodney Street. On arrival police found the offender, who was out on bail from undisclosed previous charges, brandishing a hatchet while wearing an animal’s skull on his head and face, and suspected he may be under the influence of methamphetamine. When approached by officers the offender, who was from the Far North, escaped to his car but was caught and arrested after police smashed a window and pepper-sprayed him. He has been charged with threatening behaviour, possession of an offensive weapon and breach of bail. 

Under the influence
Local police say while reports of criminal activity including burglary, thefts and drug offenses have been quiet, the number of drivers not wearing seatbelts and driving under the influence are still high.
“What’s sad about it is that it is our locals we are picking up on a regular basis on local streets, people under the influence of drink or drugs,” says Mangawhai Constable Dale Wewege. “Remember, besides the devastation caused by killing or injuring another person or yourself, if you’re breathalysed and read between 150 and 400 you’ll receive a fine and demerit points. If the number is over that, you’re heading for court.”  

Chainsaw stolen
A chainsaw was stolen from a parked vehicle on Pearson Street in the first weekend of August. The Makita DCS231 was on the floor of the back seat of the vehicle where it was alleged it was visible through the window only with close inspection. There were no signs of forced entry. 

“If you have to leave valuables in your vehicle, put them in the boot,” Cst. Wewege says. “Even if items left in a car are covered by something like a jacket, it’s still showing that possibly there is something of worth in the car.”

- REPORTING/Julia Wade