COPS BREAK UP INGHAM BRAWL
A BRAWL between disgruntled neighbours spilled on to an Ingham street on Tuesday night, resulting in police using capsicum spray to subdue alleged offenders.
Police responded to reports of at least 15 people fighting in Ingham about 11.30pm.
When they arrived at a block of units on Mcilwraith St, there were so many people brawling that additional police were called to the scene.
Acting Inspector Graeme Paine said police believed the fighting started with a dispute between neighbours and esca- lated out of control when a woman smashed a glass on a man’s head.
Insp Paine said residents and guests were involved in the melee, with early indications suggesting two parties or gatherings were taking place.
Fighting began inside but had spilled on to the street by the time police arrived.
“There were four persons arrested at the scene,” Insp Paine said.
“They were all heavily intoxicated and their demeanour was very anti- police.
“As police attempted to initiate the arrest, a number of them have resisted quite vio- lently and made threats and attempted to assault police so capsicum spray was deployed to effect the arrest.”
Insp Paine said a 20- yearold Townsville man and a 21year- old Ingham man were charged with serious assault and obstructing police, while a 34- year- old Ingham man and 27- year- old Ingham man were charged with obstructing police.
They will all face Ingham Magistrates Court on December 14.
A fifth man was charged with drink- driving after allegedly moving a car at the front of the units during the brawl.
Insp Paine said police were still investigating the possibility that a woman had “glassed” a man in the head but no charges had been laid last night.
A man was taken to hospital with head injuries as a result of that incident, while the four people arrested on the night were treated for lacerations to their face and hands.
Insp Paine said the incident occurred in front of a number of witnesses. Police are appealing for anyone with information that could help their investigation to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Police Link on 131 444.