A traffic attendant sustained a deep laceration and facial fractures in Newcastle after a man leaving an off-licence swung a bag of bottles at his face.
Police later arrested a man after what they described as a “serious assault” on Saturday.
A police spokesperson said: “We received a report from a member of the public just before 4pm that she had witnessed a traffic attendant being assaulted by a man in the Main Street area of the town.
“The traffic attendant, a man aged in his 30s, later reported to officers that a man had bumped into him as he left an off-licence, before becoming verbally abusive. In fear for his safety, he switched on his body worn camera and the man swung a plastic bag of bottles towards him, striking him in the face, before he made off from the scene.
“The traffic attendant sustained a number of facial fractures and a deep laceration.
“With the help of the local community, we were able to quickly identify the suspect. A 28-year-old man was located a short time later at licensed premises, at which time he became aggressive, assaulting four officers.
“He was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including grievous bodily harm with intent and four counts of assault on police. He remains in custody at this time.”
The police spokesperson continued: “It’s appalling that a man going about his lawful business should be attacked in this way.
“We know this type of incident can have a negative impact on those who live in the town, and will be maintaining our proactive policing presence in the area.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the assault or who may have footage, including dash-cam, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 901 03/01/26.
“Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/ .”
UPDATE: The 28-year-old is charged with grievous bodily harm with intent, five counts of assault on police, resisting police and disorderly behaviour on licensed premises.
He is due to appear before Downpatrick Magistrates’ Court on Monday, January 5.
As is usual procedure, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
