Radio jock charged over airport stunt

A Hamilton disc jockey is facing legal battles on two fronts after on-air radio stunts came back to haunt him.

Ian Stables, the drive-time host for The Edge 97.8FM, was charged yesterday with "impersonation of a detective from Interpol" and offensive use of a telephone.

He will appear in the Hamilton District Court next week, where he may also face further charges related to attempts by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) to secure reparation of about $20,000. The charges relate to three on-air calls he made to LAPD and Los Angeles International Airport on July 28.

Stables told authorities that radio colleagues Jason Reeves, Jay Jay Feeney and Clark Gayford - travelling to the United States for the station's "Elope to Las Vegas" promotion - were attempting to smuggle protected kiwi eggs in their "rear cavities." The trio were held for two hours at LA airport, questioned and searched and US wildlife protection officers called.

Yesterday, Stables was served papers related to civil proceedings TVNZ sports presenter April Ieremia has initiated in the High Court at Auckland. For the past four years, Stables has broadcast satirical details of a fictitious relationship with her.

In the documents Ms Ieremia alleges Stables has hurt her career and caused emotional stress.

On the station's website, Stables gives the impression he is married to her. He described his favourite food as "whatever April cooks for me."

"There is nothing like a meal prepared by a loving and generous wife. I am sooooo lucky!" Further website comments may have contributed to the legal action.

Stables, aged 27, is the highest rating afternoon DJ outside Wellington and Christchurch and has been with the station for five years.

He described both legal proceedings as ludicrous.

- NZPA