Man attempts to stab officer
THE alleged attempted stabbing murder of a police in Babinda has sparked calls for increased security at every police station – no matter how small.
A 36-year-old Babindabased constable was back at work less than 24 hours after he was allegedly attacked by a man with a carving knife during his shift at the station.
He and the acting sergeant who came to his rescue have been praised for managing to disarm the man who had also allegedly tried to push the junior officer off a balcony.
Queensland Police Union Far North representative Sgt Marty Bristow said the matter was especially disturbing since it allegedly happened without warning at the station.
He said there were plenty of unrelated recent examples of Far North Queensland officers and police station staff being put in harm’s way.
“We had someone throwing rocks at the Cairns station a number of months ago,” he said.
“He had actually made his own body armour out of a wheelie bin.
“I’ve seen people released from the Cairns Watch House then go and smash people’s private cars in the carpark.
“It’s a concern for anyone who works at the station, not just police.
“Security is important for every station.”
Local man Thomas Newman, 19, appeared via video link in the Cairns Magistrates Court on Saturday charged with attempted murder, serious assault on police, going armed so as to cause fear, obstruct police and wilful damage of police property.
He is due to undergo a mental health assessment and will return to court on Wednesday.
Innisfail police Detective Sergeant Darrin Padget said the officers were “shaken” but had not suffered serious injuries and were back at work.
Police have alleged Newman presented at the station at about 5.45pm on Friday, and as a side door was opened he lunged at the officer with a knife, making threats.
The male constable managed to disarm the man who allegedly continued to lash out violently, attempting to push the officer from a balcony.
The other officer was nearby and heard his partner calling for assistance so quickly came to his aid and both managed to subdue the man and take him into custody.
“It’s obviously something that is certainly not expected while you’re at the station,” Det Sgt Padget said.
“It just goes to show what police can be exposed to and that they have to be on their guard at all times.”
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