Union reveals officer's neck broken in Lake Clifton ramming

Wednesday, 15 March 2023 09:55

By Monique Welhan

First Class Constable Kaine Burgess suffered a broken neck in the incident. PIC: Supplied

The Police Union has renewed calls for intentionally ramming a police car to be made a specific offence after it was revealed an officer suffered a broken neck in a ramming incident in Lake Clifton earlier this year.

First Class Constable Kaine Burgess, 34, and his partner were injured after the marked police vehicle they were in was deliberately rammed by a Suzuki Vitara in the early hours of January 29, 2023.

"Both officers suffered bruises and Kaine suffered a “neck strain”. But after Kaine’s strain didn’t heal after a few days, he returned to hospital and was diagnosed with fractured vertebrae," WA Police Union Acing President Paul Gale said.

"Kaine is currently on sick leave; he’s not allowed to drive; and he must wear a full-body brace for another six weeks. He is experiencing a lot of pain, both mental and physical, and symptoms of sleep deprivation."

Const. Burgess was initially deemed to have suffered just minor injuries. PIC: Supplied

On Tuesday, Mr Gale again called for the State Government to make the act of ramming a police car a specific offence attracting a mandatory prison term of three-years, and 10-years if the act involves the use of a stolen car.

The 38-year-old man who is accused of ramming Const. Burgess’ car suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to Royal Perth Hospital shortly after the crash.

He has since been charged with two counts of endangering the life, health or safety of a person.