News / avon and somerset police
Police officers punched at illegal rave
Avon & Somerset Police say that four of their officers were assaulted and a police vehicle damaged following an illegal rave in south Bristol.
Punches were thrown at officers, who were also spat at and had objects thrown at them, with one female officer being grabbed by her hair.
More than 200 partygoers attended the rave at Willway Street in Bedminster on Saturday night, with two people – a 28-year-old woman and a 16-year-old boy – being arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker.
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Police arrived shortly after 10.19pm at the site near Windmill Hill City Farm and confiscated music equipment.
Most people left by midnight when the music was switched off but a small group remained at the scene until 4am on Sunday morning.
Avon & Somerset Police neighbourhood chief inspector, Keith Smith, said: “We recognise the significant impact these events can have on people living in the surrounding area and we responded quickly – and with significant resources – to minimise this.
“Some of the behaviour officers were confronted with was completely unacceptable.
“Officers were punched, spat at, had objects thrown at them and one was grabbed by her hair causing bruising. Welfare support is in place for them.
“Despite the aggression they faced, officers responded with utmost professionalism and were able to limit the impact on local residents.”
The woman who was arrested has since been released on bail and the boy has been released under investigation.
Main photo: Karen Johnson
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