Officer left bloodied after violent clash with Jetstar passenger

Source: AFP
Pictures have emerged of a federal police officer with blood streaming from facial injuries after a shocking alleged assault by a Jetstar passenger.
Australian Federal Police allege the 34-year-old woman assaulted the officer, whose name has not been released, with a pen after being removed from a flight at Perth Airport on Monday.
AFP officers had been called to meet the Sydney flight late on Monday, after the passenger allegedly became disruptive and refused to follow crew instructions.
“AFP officers met the aircraft at the gate and escorted a Perth woman, 34, from the plane. Police will allege the woman attempted to walk away from officers while disembarking,” a federal police statement said.
They say that one officer was attacked when police tried to restrain the woman.
“She pulled away, striking an officer’s forearm with a pen that had been concealed under her clothing. A second officer went to restrain the woman and was allegedly struck in the face and neck with the pen,” police said.
An ambulance was called to treat both officers, with one taken to Royal Perth Hospital. He was released on Tuesday morning.

One officer was taken to hospital with facial injuries after the confrontation. Photos: AFP
The woman was arrested and escorted from the tarmac. She was later charged with two counts of causing harm to a Commonwealth public official, an offence carrying a maximum penalty of 13 years’ jail.
She was also charged with obstructing a public official and failing to comply with safety instructions given by cabin crew contrary to Civil Aviation Safety Regulations. The maximum penalty for that offence is a fine of $13,750.
She appeared in court in Perth on Tuesday.
AFP Acting Commander Murray Taylor said any passenger who broke the law by being violent or disruptive was dealt with swiftly.
“The AFP and its partners have zero tolerance for antisocial, violent or dangerous behaviour towards passengers, staff or law enforcement at our airports, and we will take action against those who offend,” he said.
“Passengers expect to feel safe while travelling and should not have to witness intoxication, violence or bad behaviour.”
A Jetstar spokesperson passengers were required to follow crew instructions and comply with safety procedures, which included fastening seatbelts for landing.
“We will never tolerate disruptive behaviour onboard our aircraft or within the terminal and appreciate the ongoing assistance and support of the AFP,” the Jetstar spokesperson said.