Christchurch Man’s Attempted Citizen’s Arrest Leads to Convictions

Frustrated by the lack of progress in his assault case, Steven Gardiner took matters into his own hands, leading to a chaotic situation that resulted in multiple convictions. After a month of waiting for police action against David Hoffman, who had assaulted him, Gardiner enlisted three associates and attempted to execute a citizen’s arrest at Hoffman’s residence in Christchurch.

On the day of the incident, Gardiner, along with Michael Davies, James Dell, and a fourth associate, approached Hoffman’s home. As they entered the property through the backyard, Gardiner informed police that he was about to serve an arrest warrant on Hoffman. The situation escalated quickly, resulting in violence and subsequent legal repercussions for all those involved.

Details of the Confrontation

Upon confronting Hoffman, Gardiner informed him that he was under arrest and presented a makeshift “warrant.” Hoffman, feeling threatened, responded by asking them to leave but was met with Gardiner’s aggressive insistence. Tensions flared, leading Gardiner to shout, “Sit down and go to jail like the little bitch you are,” before physically assaulting Hoffman.

The confrontation became violent as Gardiner grabbed Hoffman by the neck, leaving him struggling to breathe. Davies joined in, pinning Hoffman down while Gardiner struck him multiple times. In the ensuing struggle, Hoffman managed to escape, retaliating by headbutting Gardiner before grabbing a spatula to strike Dell as they exited the property. Hoffman sustained significant injuries, including facial fractures and abrasions.

Legal Consequences for All Involved

Gardiner and Davies faced charges of common assault and wilful trespass in the Christchurch District Court. During the sentencing, Judge Stephen O’Driscoll described Gardiner’s actions as “extremely unusual” and emphasized that Gardiner had no legal authority to carry out a citizen’s arrest. “You were clearly wrong… you were mistaken to do what you did,” Judge O’Driscoll stated.

Gardiner received a sentence of two months’ community detention and nine months’ intensive supervision. Davies, who remained silent during the proceedings, was sentenced to 12 months’ supervision. James Dell, who had previously been convicted of wilful trespass, was also implicated in the incident, with the court hearing that Hoffman had been charged and convicted of injuring Gardiner with intent during the original assault in December 2024.

The unfolding events highlight the complexities and potential dangers of vigilante justice, especially when individuals act without the legal authority to do so. The legal system continues to grapple with such cases, emphasizing the importance of following due process in matters of law enforcement.