Paramedic allegedly 'punched in face' trying to help patient
The Queensland Ambulance Service says it won’t boost security or arm staff despite another vicious attack on a paramedic.
This time, the attack happened on Brisbane’s north side. A patient allegedly became violent on the way to hospital and punched an ambulance officer in the face.
He was driving 22-year-old Louis Hancock to hospital when he suddenly needed medical treatment himself.
Hancock had been found unconscious in a unit at Everton Park.
Paramedics claim he woke up in the ambulance about 10.30pm on Saturday in an alleged rage.
The driver pulled over inside the Airport Link tunnel when the attack occurred.
“He was quite violent in the back of the car, they then released the door to let him go,” Assistant Commissioner Chris Broomfield said.
Mr Hancock allegedly punched the officer as he was being released from the vehicle.
“It’s a disgraceful act and QAS certainly will vigorously pursue these matters legally,” Broomfield said.
Hancock was released on bail to live with his mother. He will face court again in February.
It’s not the first time it’s happened either.
Anther patient who had also been unconscious allegedly bashed paramedic Brad Johnson on the Gold Coast in December 2015.
Despite this there are no plans to arm paramedics in Queensland.
“Paramedics are there to help people, not harm people,” Broomfield said.
“Our paramedics come to work and they really want to fight to save the patient’s life, not fight to save their own”.
