A police sergeant has been charged following a critical incident investigation into a crash on the Mid North Coast almost two years ago, after allegedly striking a pedestrian while responding to a call for assistance.
The incident occurred shortly before 2.20am on Friday 5 January 2024, when the officer, attached to a Northern Region command, was driving a police vehicle along Middleton Street in South Kempsey.
Police allege the vehicle struck a 39 year old woman who was walking in the area at the time.
The woman was taken to Kempsey Hospital for treatment of non life threatening injuries before later being transferred to John Hunter Hospital for further care.
A crime scene was established and inquiries commenced into the circumstances surrounding the crash, with assistance from the Crash Investigation Unit.
In line with NSW Police procedures, a critical incident team from the Manning Great Lakes Police District was formed to independently investigate police involvement in the incident.
That investigation has now concluded, with the officer charged nearly two years after the alleged incident.
Police confirmed the sergeant was issued with a court attendance notice on Wednesday 31 December 2025, charged with negligent driving causing grievous bodily harm.
He is due to appear before Taree Local Court on Tuesday 10 February 2026.
NSW Police have confirmed the officer’s employment status is under review, which is standard procedure when an officer faces a criminal charge.
Critical incident investigations are undertaken when police actions result in serious injury or where police involvement is otherwise significant. These investigations are conducted separately from local police commands to ensure independence and transparency.
Police have not provided further comment on the matter, noting it is now before the courts.
The charge does not indicate a finding of guilt, and the officer is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until the case is determined by a court.
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