Teenager charged over petrol bomb attack on police officer during disorder
A teenage boy has been charged over a petrol bomb attack on a police officer during disorder in Carrickfergus earlier this year.
A police spokesman said: “The officer was injured by the petrol bomb on Tuesday, 9th June in the Albert Road area of the town while responding to the disorder.
“He sustained burns to his face after being engulfed in flames, before the fire was extinguished.
“Flames also engulfed a police vehicle as a result of the same attack resulting in another officer having their hair singed and experiencing breathing difficulties.
“Detectives with assistance from Carrickfergus Neighbourhood officers, arrested a 17-year-old boy in the area yesterday, Thursday 10th September. Quantities of suspected Class B and Class C controlled drugs were also seized from the address.
“He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of drug-related offences, including possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply, and was later released on bail pending further enquiries into this separate investigation.
“As a result of the petrol bomb attack on the officer, he has been charged with offences including riot, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, making a petrol bomb, possessing a petrol bomb, throwing a petrol bomb, criminal damage and assault on police.
“He’s due to appear before Belfast Youth Court on Monday, 5th October. As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
“This officer was carrying out his duties to help keep communities safe when he was assaulted during what would have been a terrifying incident. We welcome the charges, which will help ensure accountability for what happened.”