Reward offered in serious police assault investigation

Published Monday, 03 July, 2017 at 11:30 AM

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrective Services
The Honourable Mark Ryan

A $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for seriously assaulting a female officer in Townsville 10 years ago has been announced today.

Police Minister Mark Ryan approved the reward to help solve the crime which caused grievous bodily harm to then 26-year-old Constable Tenelle Luscombe.

He said the officer and her partner were attempting to defuse a large brawl in a carpark near a Flinders Street night club when she was struck in the head by an unknown person in the early hours of July 4, 2007.

“Any assault of a police officer is unacceptable but this incident was particularly appalling,” Minister Ryan said.

“Senior Constable Luscombe was simply doing her job, trying to keep people out of harm’s way when she was set-upon in a despicable and cowardly act.

“As a result of the assault, Senior Constable Luscombe had to undergo reconstructive facial surgery and long-term rehabilitation while the person responsible remains unaccountable.

“There were a lot of people inside the venue at the time of this incident and police believe someone has the key piece of information needed to finally close this case.

“I have approved this reward in the hope that it will prompt someone out there in the community that has been sitting on information about this case for years to finally come forward.”

Chief Superintendent Kev Guteridge said investigations into the serious assault had been protracted and complex.

“Over the past 10 years, detectives have conducted extensive inquiries and interviewed at least 100 witnesses but the matter remains unsolved,” Chief Superintendent Guteridge said.

“The assault occurred at the end of the Townsville Show with many patrons present after attending the show and we are hopeful by shining the spotlight back on this case on its 10th anniversary, someone may come forward.”

Anyone with information in relation to this matter is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

ENDS

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