Youth admits part in machete attack on police officer

Senior Constable Bruce Mellor from Taihape, and the injuries he suffered after a frenzied attack with a machete last year. Photo / File

One of the two youths charged with attacking a police officer near Taihape last year has admitted aggravated assault in the Wanganui Youth Court.

Waiouru Senior Constable Bruce Mellor suffered multiple skull fractures and cuts to his head and body after he was attacked with a machete after stopping a stolen car driven by the youths.

The 14-year-old, who cannot be named, was originally charged with the attempted murder of police officer but did not deny - a Youth Court phrasing - a lesser charge of aggravated assault, when he appeared in court today, ONE News reported.

The boy will attend a family group conference next month, which Mellor is also expected to attend.

The other youth, Japhet Joseph Simiona, 18, was sentenced to eight years and three months' prison for attempted murder.

- NZPA