A Lake Macquarie police officer has been hospitalised with significant bruising and swelling to her face, after she was punched during an arrest overnight.
Police say a 20-year-old man went on a rampage through the streets of Hillsborough on Monday.
The Charlestown man made his way into the backyard of a King Street home around 8pm, where it’s alleged he damaged sporting equipment.
The homeowners confronted him before he ran off through several other properties, continuing to damage homes.
Another homeowner, who confronted him on Percy Street, was allegedly tackled and punched in the face several times by the 20-year-old.
When emergency services arrived, a female senior constable tried to arrest the young man.
Police say he then punched her in the head and pulled her hair before other officers stepped in to help detain him.
The injured officer was then taken to John Hunter Hospital for treatment.
The 20-year-old was also taken to hospital under police guard for treatment to injuries sustained during the incident.
He was released from hospital this morning and taken to Belmont Police Station.
He was charged with nine offences, including damaging property and the assault of a police officer.
He was refused bail to appear at Belmont Local Court today.
