A Canterbury University student arrested last month after allegedly having weapons at his halls of residence has now been charged with possessing a Taser.
The 20-year-old man was initially charged with possession of an extendable baton and a knife, but today the charge for possession of an extendable baton was withdrawn and a new charge for possession of a Taser was laid.
Court documents show the man was found by police on the morning of October 19, walking south on Waimairi Rd in Christchurch after receiving “a call of concern” from university staff.
“The defendant was detained and was found in possession of a hunting-style flick knife,” the summary of facts read.
“A box of property left behind in the defendant’s room after he had moved out was handed to police for safekeeping.
“Located among the property was a small handheld Taser.”
The man, who has name suppression, told police that he “purchased all his items online and believed they were all legal items”.
He said he only had his knife on him and “grabbed it before leaving his room as he felt like if the lodge management saw it, he would face action from the staff”.
His lawyer, Andrew Riches, said his client was not able to complete his studies given he was now banned from the halls of residence.
He said police are considering a diversion for the charges.
The man will reappear in court next month.
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