Man in his 20s arrested after punching PSNI officer in the face

Police in Downpatrick have arrested a man aged in his 20s on suspicion of a number of offences, including assault on police.

It's been reported a man was acting aggressively towards another male in the Market Street area of the town yesterday evening.

When police arrived - the man continued to be verbally abusive, and when police attempted to arrest him, he punched one officer in the side of the face.

Inspector Heatley said: “Officers responded to a report of a man acting aggressively towards and attempting to assault another male in the Market Street area of the town yesterday evening, Friday 6th December, shortly before 6.25pm.

“It was also reported that the man was punching the window of takeaway premises in the area.

“Upon arrival of police, the man continued to be verbally abusive, and when police attempted to arrest him, he punched one officer in the side of the face.

“He continued to kick out at, shout, swear, and spit at police, as well as shouting verbal abuse them.

“He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of assault on police, disorderly behaviour, attempted criminal damage and resisting police, and remains in police custody at this time.”

Inspector Heatley added: “Our officers are here to help, and respond to calls assisting people. Assaults on police are unacceptable, and must not be tolerated as simply being ‘part of the job’.

“Our enquiries to establish the circumstances of this incident remain ongoing, and I would appeal to anyone who may have any information which might assist to get in touch.

“The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 1464 of 06/12/24.”

Information can also be submitted online via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/