Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police acknowledges an Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) report that found officers used reasonable force when separating two people having a physical fight at an address in Matamata.
On 13 December 2019 Police arrived at the address and separated a man (Mr Z) and a woman (Ms Y).
Shortly after, Mr Z started to have trouble breathing and became unconscious.
The officers administered CPR until ambulance staff arrived however Mr Z was unable to be revived and was pronounced dead a short time after.
The IPCA investigated after Ms Y complained about the actions of Police during this interaction, but in reviewing the incident the IPCA found officers who attended did not use excessive force when dealing with Mr Z.
Waikato East Area Commander Dean Anderson says he supports the actions of the officers involved.
“The officers involved in this incident acted appropriately and in accordance with their duties and responsibilities.
“Our thoughts remain with the man’s family, and with the officers who attended this incident.”
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
