AN Auckland man who hitched a ride to Whakatane during lockdown and threatened police with a glass bottle is the Eastern Bay’s first Covid-related arrest.
David Colin Sadler, 54, appeared in the Whakatane District Court yesterday morning and was sentenced to three months in prison after he pleaded guilty to breaching lockdown rules and assaulting a police officer.
He had traveled approximately 279 kilometres from his home in Auckland, hitching rides down the North Island before finding his way to the Eastern Bay.
Police apprehended Sadler on Wednesday after they found him tampering with a commercial property in Whakatane.
Sadler, who has a history of disorderly behaviour dating back over 30 years, advanced on police with a glass bottle, threatening violence.
Senior Sergeant Al Fenwick said it was clear Sadler suffered from antisocial behaviour and mental health-related issues, as he told police he didn’t believe in Covid-19 and Jesus would guide and protect him.
The man had received multiple warnings from police between Auckland and the Bay of Plenty including his most recent warning in Papakura where he had also become aggressive towards police.
Mr Fenwick said it was clear the man had been travelling around the country as he pleased.
He urged Eastern Bay people to stay vigilant and stick to the rules.
“We can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel, let’s not ruin it now.”