January 16, 2013
Call for calm from alleged Kawhia attacker’s mother
Kāwhia residents are urging people to stay calm in the wake of an attack on community constable Perry Griffin.
About 200 residents met last night in a meeting chaired by Otorohanga District Council Mayor Dale Williams.
Cellphone footage from the public seems to contradict the original police story that the sole charge police officer only pepper sprayed and tasered 19-year-old Jackie Maikuku after he resisted arrest.
Maikuku and members of his family then allegedly set upon Mr Griffin until the volunteer fire fighters and members of the public intervened.
The footage shows Maikuku, with his arms held in the air, walking backwards and remonstrating with the officer, who advances towards him with a taser.
Maikuku was wanted on charges of driving while disqualified, breaching supervision, reckless driving, failing to stop, failure to answer court bail, and breach of community work.
The video shows him telling the officer he will turn up in court to answer them.
Police say what was released of the video was very selective.
Makuika’s mother, Lisa Panapa, made a plea that the town not be divided by the attack.
She offered her prayers and thoughts to the injured officer.
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