Have a go at criminals, says top cop

   Saturday September 2, 2006
   By Jarrod Booker

   You don't have to stand back and let a criminal rob you blind - if you
   think you can take him down, have a go, says a high-ranking policeman.

   Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston has won plenty of fans after
   expressing that view in the Christchurch Star newspaper this week, but
   some have sounded a note of warning.

   Standard police advice for anyone who catches a criminal in the act
   has long been to back off, watch and wait for officers to arrive.

   But Mr Johnston told the Star that if people felt they could tackle a
   burglar, they should "go for it".

   "We just want people to use common sense. If you're confident you can
   grab them, give it a go, but if they've got a weapon it's probably a
   good time to get out of there."

   His comments came after a 55-year-old Christchurch resident tackled an
   allegedly prolific burglar he found walking out of his house. The
   homeowner was stabbed with a screwdriver but stopped the man.

   "I had to tackle him several times and another neighbour helped and
   called the police, who were there in about five minutes," the
   homeowner told the Star.

   Criminologist Greg Newbold told the Herald Mr Johnston's comments were
   spot on. "It's simply a matter of personal choice. I personally would
   have a go, without a doubt. If the guy is twice your size with a gun
   or a baseball bat, you wouldn't. You just have to use discretion.

   "I mean, we wouldn't expect Tana Umaga to stand back while some
   pipsqueak burgles his house.

   "Most policemen would support Malcolm Johnston's view, but not
   publicly. They could be held to account if they say it and someone
   gets hurt."

   Police National Headquarters spokesman Jon Neilson said Mr Johnston's
   views were a "fair comment".

   However, people had to be aware that by trying to apprehend someone,
   their risks rose sharply. The offender could have a weapon.

   Mr Neilson said police preferred people to back off to a safe place,
   watch what was happening and stay in contact with police. "By all
   means chase them and get in touch with police."

   Neighbourhood Support chairwoman Ingrid Stonhill said her organisation
   would not encourage people to take on a burglar.

   "I have to think what would be gained by tackling a person? You still
   have to call the police."

   A policeman of 38 years turned Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator Pat
   Creasey cautiously backed Mr Johnston. "I agree with Malcolm, but
   sometimes your opinion can turn out to be wrong. Some of these people
   you come across are desperate."