15 Jun 2010

Arrest warrant issued after Hamilton assault

10:42 am on 15 June 2010

Hamilton police have issued an arrest warrant following an assault on a man on Friday morning, which resulted in the victim's ear being nearly bitten off.

The warrant has been issued for Karl Bettridge, 27, on the charge of wounding with intent.

The police say a 32-year-old man disturbed two men who were attempting to steal his bike from his home in Hamilton East.

He chased the men and got involved in a struggle, which ended in him receiving wounds to his neck, hands and head.

The man was also bitten on the left ear, though it stayed attached.

The police say a number of search warrants were carried out over the weekend, and say they are some way towards identifying a second alleged offender.