Traffic Warden In Newcastle Seriously Assaulted And Man Later Arrested By Police
A traffic warden and four police officers were injured following a serious assault in Newcastle.
The police spokesperson said: “It’s appalling that a man going about his lawful business should be attacked in this way.
Police in Newcastle have made an arrest after a man sustained serious facial injuries in an assault on Saturday afternoon, 3rd January.
A police spokesperson said: “We received a report from a member of the public just before 4pm that she had witnessed a traffic attendant being assaulted by a man in the Main Street area of the town.
“The traffic attendant, a man aged in his 30s, later reported to officers that a man had bumped into him as he left an off-licence, before becoming verbally abusive.
“In fear for his safety, he switched on his body worn camera and the man swung a plastic bag of bottles towards him, striking him in the face, before he made off from the scene.
“The traffic attendant sustained a number of facial fractures and a deep laceration.
“With the help of the local community, we were able to quickly identify the suspect. A 28-year-old man was located a short time later at licensed premises, at which time he became aggressive, assaulting four officers.
“He was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including grievous bodily harm with intent and four counts of assault on police. He remains in custody at this time.”
“We know this type of incident can have a negative impact on those who live in the town, and will be maintaining our proactive policing presence in the area.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the assault or who may have footage, including dash-cam, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 901 03/01/26.
“Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via:
http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at:
http://crimestoppers-uk.org/ .”
McGrath condemns attack on traffic warden and police officers in Newcastle
SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has condemned the violent assault on a traffic warden and four police officers in Newcastle, County Down on Saturday afternoon.
Colin McGrath MLA said: “This was a deeply concerning incident and my thoughts are with the traffic warden who was injured while carrying out his work in Newcastle on Saturday.
“No one should have to face violence while at work, and it is particularly concerning that police officers responding to the situation were also assaulted.
“Incidents like this are distressing for the local community and are not reflective of the town. It’s important that the individual involved is held to account and that we continue to support the work of those who help keep our towns safe.”
UPDATES TO CHARGES
Police in Newcastle have charged a man to court following an assault in the Main Street area of the town on Saturday afternoon, 3rd January, where atraffic warden sustained serious facial injuries.
The 28-year-old is charged with grievous bodily harm with intent, five counts of assault on police, resisting police and disorderly behaviour on licensed premises.
He is due to appear before Downpatrick Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 5th January, 2026.
As is usual procedure, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
