Thomas Wiremu Munu

Background

Background
From Waikato Times story June 30th 2000
The man who stabbed Constable Rob Colley of Matamata three times in a frenzied attack with a screwdriver has been jailed for five years and three months. Yesterday the Hamilton District Court heard how Thomas Wiremu Munu, 22, formerly of Waharoa, attacked Mr Colley when the officer tried to stop Munu stealing a utility vehicle on January 21.

Munu stabbed Mr Colley in the eye, hip and elbow with the screwdriver he had been using to jemmy the ignition. The doctor who examined Mr Colley said the officer was lucky not to lose sight in his right eye. Mr Colley yesterday said sending Munu to jail for five years three months was a "bloody good job".

He said he was fine now but after the attack thought he could have been "another Murray Stretch" -- referring to his former friend who was murdered in the line of duty last year. He said almost all police were attacked during their career -- he hoped this was his only time. He said now he was more aware of danger when going into situations. "I stop and think a bit more rather than rush in."

Judge Geoffery Rea, sentencing Munu on charges of aggravated wounding and car theft, said Munu had a "chequered and extensive criminal history". His prior convictions included 12 dishonesty offences, driving offences and one for aggravated assault, car theft and aggravated wounding. Munu was sentenced to five years and three months' jail for aggravated wounding, and 18 months' jail for unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

The sentences are concurrent. He was also disqualified from driving for two years. An Occupational Health and Safety report released in April cleared police procedures of wrongdoing in allowing lone officers to work at night. Just hours after Mr Colley was attacked, Raglan Constable Craig Bridgman was threatened and said later that he feared for his safety.