Childcare Worker's Reckless New Year's Assault Results in Police Officer Injury
A Figtree childcare worker has faced court after her reckless behaviour on New Year's Day left a police officer with a chipped tooth and bleeding mouth. The incident occurred during the early hours of January 1 in Wollongong, leading to serious legal consequences for the 27-year-old woman.
Court Hears Details of Confrontation
Faye Armstrong appeared in Wollongong Local Court on January 20, where she pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest. The court heard that police were speaking to a man on Walang Avenue in Figtree when Armstrong approached them and began yelling aggressively.
When officers ordered her to step back, Armstrong responded with profanity and continued her aggressive behaviour. Police pushed her back, prompting her to shout, "You have no right to touch me." As the situation escalated, an officer shone a torch in Armstrong's direction and warned her, "Leave or you're getting locked up for hinder."
Torch Strike Causes Dental Injury
According to court documents, Armstrong then flailed her arm, knocking the torch into the senior constable's face. The impact was significant enough to chip the officer's tooth and cause bleeding in his mouth. The incident highlighted the dangers police officers face during routine duties.
Defence Cites Confusion and Employment Concerns
Defence solicitor Matthew Zappia told the court his client had been asleep and was placed in a state of confusion when she woke to find police questioning her partner. "My client's partner had been out drinking. He had lost his phone and was wandering up and down the street," Mr Zappia explained.
While conceding Armstrong's actions were reckless, Mr Zappia asked the court not to record a conviction to protect her employment in childcare, noting the incident was extremely out of character for the woman.
Magistrate Emphasises Common Sense and Police Safety
Magistrate Robert Rabbidge acknowledged the behaviour was reckless but emphasised that common sense must prevail in such situations. "Time and time again police have been injured in the line of duty. The last thing they need is an irate woman refusing careful and wise counsel to simply step back," Magistrate Rabbidge stated.
The magistrate highlighted the importance of calmness and rational behaviour when interacting with law enforcement officers, particularly during potentially volatile situations.
Community Correction Order Imposed
Armstrong was ultimately sentenced to a one-year community correction order. The outcome reflects the court's consideration of both the seriousness of the offence and the defendant's personal circumstances, including her employment in the childcare sector.
The case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences that can result from confrontations with police, even when such behaviour is described as out of character for the individual involved.
