Bellerive CIB Detectives have charged 3 people in relation to the assault of a police officer in Risdon Vale last night.

The female Constable attended a house in Laurel St, Risdon Vale, at 11.20pm, with a Sergeant and another Constable. They were responding to a complaint of noise and anti-social behaviour.

A man at the address was arrested after he threw beer over the male Constable; a struggle ensued between the man and the officers.  During the scuffle the female Constable was placed in a headlock, sprayed with capsicum spray and punched in the head.  The Constable was knocked unconscious. 

The capsicum spray did not belong to the police.  Further investigations are continuing in relation to possession of the capsicum spray.

The Constable was treated at the Royal Hobart Hospital and released.  The Constable has minor injuries and is resting.

Early this morning police arrested and charged a 20 year old woman from Risdon Vale with assault police, and a 20 year old Risdon Vale man with assault police, resist a police officer and Criminal escape.  They will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court in September.  A 16 year old girl from Risdon Vale will be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act.

“Any assault on a police officer is unacceptable,” said Deputy Commissioner Scott Tilyard.

“Our officers, and other emergency service workers, often respond to incidents that involve personal risk.   Their work is challenging enough without the additional threat of being assaulted while performing the role.”