Geraldton Police review body-worn video as investigation into Rangeway and Spalding NYE brawls continues

New Year’s Eve celebrations in Spalding and Rangeway hit a sour note after police attended two out-of-control brawls that required officers to use pepper spray to control crowds.

On January 1 police attended a house on Banksia Street in Rangeway after it was alleged about 30-40 people were engaged in a fight.

Geraldton Police acting officer-in-charge Senior Sergeant Nathan Johansen said a second brawl, unrelated to the one in Rangeway, occurred in Spalding at a similar time with about 30 people.

“Police attended the Rangeway address and observed disorderly behaviour by two females,” he said.

Sen. Sgt Johansen said police used pepper spray to control the crowds at both Spalding and Rangeway incidents, and charged two women in their 20s with disorderly behaviour over the Rangeway matter.

“Police are in the process of reviewing body-warn footage to identify other offenders,” he said.

Sen. Sgt Johansen said the disorderly behaviour had stemmed from overcrowded parties and heavy alcohol consumption.

Two women, aged 21 and 22, as well as a 16-year-old boy, were handed infringements for disorderly conduct and are due to face Geraldton Magistrates Court next month.

“Body-worn camera footage will be reviewed and there’s a likelihood there will be more people (charged),” Sen. Sgt Johansen said.

Police have yet to identify people allegedly involved in the Spalding brawl.