2000 assaults on police

A rise in the number of attacks on police is a sign the Government is failing to get on top of violent crime, says National's law and order spokesman, Simon Power.

Mr Power said yesterday that figures in the police annual report showed more officers were being assaulted than ever.

"In the year to June, there were 331 serious assaults on police, an increase of 10 per cent on the year before.

"In total, 2000 officers were assaulted, a 12 per cent increase on the year before and the highest number for 10 years.

"These figures, and the fact the JPs feel compelled to suppress their names during cases to ensure their personal safety in the courtroom, are an indictment on the crime prevention strategies of this Government."

- NZPA