By Kaya 959 Reporter
A 25-year-old fitness trainer who allegedly assaulted a female police officer and yelled racial slurs at her has been released on R500 bail.
Slade Wood appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
It is alleged that Inspector Gugu Masuku, of the JMPD K9 unit, stopped Wood after he was “driving recklessly” at the Eloff Extension and Baldwin Road at Village Deep over a week ago.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said when Masuku alighted from her vehicle, Wood allegedly grabbed her and threw her to the ground. He reportedly kicked and swore at her.
An e-hailing driver and his female passenger stopped to assist. Despite their attempts, Wood allegedly continued to assault the officer and was eventually arrested by Fidelity ADT security personnel who were driving by.
JPMD expresses disappointment
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said Wood was detained at Johannesburg Central SAPS for attempted murder, assault GBH, resisting arrest and reckless and negligent driving.
The officer was taken to Milpark Hospital with injuries on her head, face, left eye and right shoulder sustained from the suspect’s beating, and throwing her onto the ground. She was discharged the same evening after getting treatment.
The JPMD has expressed their disappointment at the court’s decision to award bail.
“The JMPD finds the leniency with which this matter has been handled worrisome as it is not reflective of the serious nature of the offence,” Fihla said
He said officers will not be discouraged and will continue to serve the City of Johannesburg with absolute pride and dedication.
“They will not be deterred from executing their duties. We hope that this case will get the serious attention needed, and that the suspect faces the consequences of his actions,” he said.
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