Man charged with setting dog on cop remanded in custody

The officer suffered moderate to serious injuries to his entire body during the attack.

A man arrested after allegedly assaulting and setting his dog upon a police officer yesterday has appeared in court.

Justin Taylor, 40, a seasonal worker, appeared in the dock in the Palmerston North District Court this afternoon with his arm in a sling.

He did not have legal representation but told the judge he would have someone attend his next appearance.

Taylor is facing five charges, including three charges relating to the incident yesterday outside the Foxton Winz office on Main St.

Those charges include causing grievous bodily harm to an officer, failing to stop for police and wounding with intent.

He is also facing two charges relating to an incident on January 29, in which the defendant is alleged to have trespassed on to a property and escaped police custody.

During his short appearance, Taylor repeatedly claimed he was "sovereign". He asked Judge Gregory Ross several times for identification and requested to know if the judge had signed an "oath with Queen Elizabeth".

He also told the court the penalty for treason was life imprisonment, and no one shall "harm, detain or kill" a sovereign.

Despite his arguments, Taylor was remanded in custody without plea to reappear next week.

A police spokeswoman said an officer had been called to the Winz officer shortly after 11.30am yesterday.

Police said the man became aggressive after being approached by the officer and both he and his dog were pepper sprayed.

It is alleged Taylor then punched the officer before setting his dog upon him.

Police said Taylor and his dog left the scene but were found shortly after at a house in Bainesse.

The dog was impounded by local animal control and the wounded officer received treatment at a local medical centre.