Cop hospitalised after chase

A Newman police officer has been flown to hospital with “significant” injuries to his head, neck and shoulders after trying to chase down an alleged hoon.

The incident occurred 11.50pm on Monday, June 5 after police allege the driver of an off-road motorcycle was seen hooning on several streets in the town.

By the time officers arrived, it’s alleged the rider had fallen from the bike and Sergeant Grant Berry chased the 27-year-old male on foot.

As Sgt Berry grabbed the rider, they both fell to the ground causing the officer to strike his head on a parked car.

Newman Senior Sergeant Mark Fleskens wished Sgt. Berry a speedy recovery and praised the local community for their continuous support.

“When you consider the volume of work police have to do, occasionally it turns out that officers get injured.

“It’s something we don’t like to have to happen to our officers. Unfortunately, people we deal with don’t always comply with our requests.”

Sgt Berry was taken to Perth by the Royal Flying Doctor Service and has severe damage to muscle and tendons around the neck and shoulder area.

He will remain in Perth for further tests and is expected to be off work for several weeks until doctors have a better indication of his injuries.

The 27- year-old suspect is facing several traffic charges.