Police officer assaulted during stop and search of teenage boy in Bournemouth
Officers were on patrol targeting suspected drug dealers
A police officer has been assaulted during the stop and search of a teenage boy in Bournemouth.
Dorset Police say at around 8.20pm on Tuesday 18 April, officers from the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Neighbourhood Enforcement Team (BCP NET) were carrying out patrols in Kings Park.
A 16-year-old boy from Bournemouth was detained for a search.
It is reported that he was obstructive and during the incident he assaulted an officer, causing swelling to their face.
A quantity of suspected drugs and a mobile phone was seized.
The boy was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply a controlled drug of class B, obstructing an authorised person in exercise of a section 23 power to search a person and assault by beating of an emergency worker. He has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
Police Constable Dominic Frost, of BCP NET, said: “We fully recognise the impact that suspected drug dealing has on residents and those who are reportedly being exploited by those involved in the supply chain.
“We want to reassure the community we are committed to tackling drug dealing and relentlessly pursuing suspected criminality.
“I would encourage any members of the community to report their concerns to Dorset Police so we can investigate and take action. If a crime is in progress, always dial 999.”