Operation Starling - Male Arrested

Waitakere CIB investigators have arrested a man for the vicious attack on a young couple in Starling Park, in Ranui, West Auckland, earlier this month.

The unemployed 25 year old male will appear in the Waitakere District Court today on three charges of “Wounds with Intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm,” and one charge of “Aggravated Robbery”.

The maximum penalty for these criminal charges is 14 years imprisonment.

Police have not ruled out that further charges may follow once forensic results are received.

The 17 year old female and 19 year old male were left lying in pools of their own blood, and fighting for their lives for several hours after they were savagely beaten. A local resident discovered them while he was walking his dog at about 7.00am in the morning on Sunday 7 March 2010.

Both victims are making steady progress in their recovery.

The 17 year old female has so far undergone surgery in two lengthy operations, of five hours, and seven hours duration. Her young age has been a key factor in her recovery. Further surgery is necessary and the diagnosis is long term recovery.

The 19 year old male has left hospital and is in a brain injury rehabilitation centre. He is slowly regaining use of the left side of his body and it is hoped he will eventually regain full use of all functions.

Police say the arrest is due to their commitment, perseverance, and diligence.