New Zealand Law Society - Police reviewing security for their court staff

Police reviewing security for their court staff

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The Police are reviewing security for their Court staff following a violent assault on a police prosecutor who was left unconscious.

On 5 September at the Hutt Valley District Court Sabbath Tane Hendrix Mohi, who is 23, leapt from the dock during his appearance, fleeing the court room.

The police prosecutor quickly responded and tried to capture the man but he was attacked and knocked unconscious.

The prosecutor is still in hospital recovering from his injuries.

Mohi was facing charges of possession of an offensive weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm, and assault.

He is considered dangerous and should not be approached. Anyone who sees him should call 111 immediately.

Mohi is described as 176cm tall and of medium build. He has a distinctive facial tattoo of a clenched fist.

Police believe Mohi is being assisted by associates in the Hutt Valley, and possibly in the Hawke's Bay.

Police have reminded the public that helping someone to evade Police is a crime in itself and Police may prosecute if there is evidence that someone has assisted Mohi in this regard.

A Police spokesperson says while policing by its nature contains an element of risk, no assault on staff is acceptable.

"When Police moved staff from the two courts, Upper Hutt and Lower Hutt to the combined Hutt District Court, we did relocate staff, and reviewed buildings to make better use of resources," the spokesperson says.

"The changes were led by each Police district, who were responsible for tailoring the changes to provide the best services for the communities they serve, and matching operational demands with local needs and we believe this model still fits best.

"We will however be reviewing the situation and continue to hunt Mohi.

"We continue to work with the Ministry of Justice to ensure that appropriate measures are in place inside courts to ensure the safety and security of all employees and visitors," Police say.