A man has been charged and a police officer allegedly assaulted while responding to a large brawl in Penrith last night.
About 10.30pm last night, police from Penrith Local Area Command were called to Lethbridge and Colless Streets, Penrith, following reports of a large group of people fighting.
On arrival, officers observed up to 80 people in the street, with many punching and kicking each other.
“While attempting to arrest a man for assault, a female inspector was allegedly hit with a stick on the side of her head,” a Police Spokesperson said.
“After three men approached the officer, she deployed capsicum spray and they dispersed.”
With the assistance of additional officers from St Marys, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, and Mt Druitt Local Area Commands, the Public Order and Riot Squad, and Traffic & Highway Patrol Command, the large group was dispersed and an investigation was commenced.
“Initial inquiries indicate a large group of people attempted to gain entry to a party uninvited at a home on Lethbridge Street, which led to the groups fighting,” the spokesperson said.
The detained man, aged 21, was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with affray.
He was granted conditional bail to appear before Penrith Local Court on Monday, April 18.
The inspector received a minor head injury but was able to continue with her duties.
Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information that may assist their inquiries to come forward.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.
