COMMUNITY ANGER AFTER VIDEO SHOWS POLICE DROPPING YOUNG WOMAN DURING ARREST

By Tangiora Hinaki

A woman’s arrest in Karratha has sparked anger among some in the community, after video footage showed her dropped by police during the incident.

The 25-year-old woman was arrested on Monday, 2 June in Millars Well, after police were called to a home following a reported fight between people known to each other.

WA Police say they’d already attended the same address earlier in the day.

The woman was arrested for allegedly breaching bail conditions by being at the property. Police say she obstructed officers by locking herself in a vehicle.

She was not injured during the arrest and no medical help was needed, according to police.

But video of the arrest, which circulated widely, has drawn strong reactions.

Roebourne community member, Kaylene Daniel says it was cruel.

“They dropped her, they disrespected her. She’s a young woman,” she said.

“When you see family members there, show some respect. Even if they had reason to arrest her, they didn’t need to treat her like that. What happened to duty of care?”

Ms Daniel says police need cultural awareness training.

“They come into town and don’t know how to talk to us. One officer shouted ‘Oi, oi!’ at me like I’m not a human. That’s not how you treat people,” she said.

The woman, who lives in Millars Well, has been charged with obstructing public officers, common assault in circumstances of aggravation or racial aggravation, and possession of a prohibited drug.

She appeared in court on the same day and is due back in Karratha Magistrates Court on 29 July.