Woman charged with obstructing police following alleged airport theft
Editor’s note: Vision of the arrest is available via Hightail
A NSW woman who allegedly spat and kicked at officers at Gold Coast Airport on Monday (10 July 2023) has been charged with stealing and obstructing police.
Airport retail staff reported an alleged theft to the AFP and patrolling officers questioned a woman, 33, about the incident.
The AFP found an allegedly stolen item in the woman’s bag and placed her under arrest.
It will be alleged the woman became uncooperative and violent towards police, spitting and kicking at the arresting officers before she was restrained.
AFP acting Superintendent Josh Kinghorn said the behaviour showed a complete disregard for the safety of frontline workers as well as the travelling public and was a timely reminder that the AFP had zero tolerance for violence at airports.
“Despite the increased traffic through Gold Coast Airport during the school holidays and in the lead up to major festivals, the vast majority of people are passing through peacefully but unfortunately incidents like this are not uncommon,” Acting Superintendent Kinghorn said.
“There is no excuse for disgusting, foul or criminal behavior towards anyone in the airport, be it police officers, airline staff or other airport employees.
“The AFP will continue to prioritise national security at designated airports and remains focused on preventing, disrupting and responding to security and criminal threats to ensure the safety of the travelling public.
“If you are committing a crime or threatening violence then you will be arrested and charged.”
The woman is due to appear in Coolangatta Magistrates Court on 20 November 2023, charged with:
- Four counts of obstructing a Commonwealth Public Official, contrary to section 149.1 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth)
- One count of Stealing, contrary to section 8 of the Criminal Code Act 1899 (QLD)
- One count of public nuisance, contrary to section 6 of the Summary Offences Act 2005 (QLD)
If you require police presence at an airport, or wish to report an incident or provide information please call the AFP’s Airport Watch on 131 AFP (131 237).
For police, fire or ambulance response to an emergency or life threatening situation, call 000.
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