22 Jan 2014

Apology for Christchurch pensioner

9:28 pm on 22 January 2014

The lawyer for a Christchurch pensioner who was left bruised and humiliated by police says they have now agreed to apologise and pay compensation.

John Bennett was arrested in his underwear in the early hours of December 2011 while carrying an air pistol and small bat as he chased intruders off his Burwood property.

The 67-year-old said the arresting officer used excessive force against him by putting a knee and foot on his back to keep him on the ground, which was covered in sewage-infested liquefaction.

In August last year, the Independent Police Conduct Authority upheld a complaint by Mr Bennett but district commander Gary Knowles said he would not apologise.

On Wednesday, Mr Bennett's lawyer Graeme Riach says an agreement has been made with police and they are now waiting for the final documents.

A police spokesperson would not be drawn on the details, saying the matter is still being discussed.