Police allege screwdriver attack on officer

A man was due to appear in court today following the alleged stabbing of a policeman with a screwdriver in Auckland city.

Police said the 26-year-old unemployed Manurewa man was breaking into cars in a city carpark building yesterday afternoon when he was approached by police.

He tried to escape and when caught turned on the 29-year-old acting sergeant and tried to stab him with a screwdriver.

Police said the officer blocked the main force of the blow but the back of his shoulder was cut and his shirt torn.

A second officer joined the struggle and the pair were eventually able to arrest the offender.

The officer completed his shift following medical checks on the minor wound.

The man faces charges including aggravated injuring, possession of an offensive weapon and theft and was due to appear in the Auckland District Court.

- NZPA