Christchurch High school students who filmed themselves assaulting a man and forcing him to eat pet food outside McDonald’s in Riccarton have not been charged.

The man was attacked by a vigilante group who believed he was a paedophile trying to meet a 14-year-old girl for sex.

Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons said a local high school was assisting police with their inquiries and that several individuals involved had been identified.

Christchurch Boys’ High School Principal Nic Hill confirmed that a discipline process was underway.

Police said while police inquiries were ongoing, no charges had been laid, and the victim was receiving support.

Meanwhile, police told chrislynchmedia.com they’re investigating a Tauranga-based group allegedly attempting to catch people trying to contact minors online.

A spokeswoman said “while inquiries were in the early stages, the group could expect to be held accountable for any criminal offences committed during this behaviour.”

In some of the videos, the group filmed themselves punching and kicking men in the face.

A sexual abuse medical practitioner told Chris Lynch Media that some of the men in the videos were mentally impaired.

The police spokeswoman said, “We discourage members of the public from taking matters into their own hands as they could place themselves and members of the public at risk.

“The people involved have no way of knowing the people they are targeting are committing criminal offences and put themselves at risk of targeting innocent people and causing serious harm.

“Vigilante action such as this could also harm current and future police investigations targeting online offenders.

“Police would hate to see actions such as these hinder or prevent a prosecution against an online offender. Police encourage anyone who has concerns about potential offending to contact us immediately.

“All complaints will be taken seriously and followed up as appropriate where there is evidence of criminal offending of this nature.”

 

If you are the victim of a child abuse or sexual abuse crime, you can contact:

·         https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/child-abuse-directory-information-and-support

·         Safe to Talk: 0800 044 334 Text 4334

If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s sexual behaviour, please reach out for support:

·         Safe Network: 09 377 9898

·         WellStop: 04 566 4745

·         STOP: 03 353 0257

·         Stand Strong, Walk Tall