Public help locate dangerous driver

Taupo Police are praising members of the public who helped in locating the driver of a vehicle that evaded Police on 16 June in Taupo.

The driver pleaded guilty on charges relating to the incident in the Taupo District Court last week.

The officer in charge of the Taupo Police Station, Senior Sergeant Fane Troy, says Police attempted to stop a vehicle in the Richmond Heights area at 11am on 16 June, however, the driver accelerated away from Police in an attempt to evade apprehension.

"At this time there were a number of pedestrians and other vehicles in and about the area and these people directed Police to the route taken by the driver.

"As a result of their help, Police were able to locate the vehicle and, using a Police dog, located the driver a short distance away."

Senior Sergeant Troy says the driver had been previously disqualified from driving and there were also warrants for his arrest.

"This is an excellent example of the community and Police working together. The driver of the vehicle was a disqualified driver. He is clearly a risk to the public, and his actions on the day enforce this. His behaviour could have injured other road users or pedestrians. If it was not for the community's help there is a possibly he might not have been identified and held responsible for his actions."

A 26 year old Taupo man has pleaded guilty to charges of Driving While Disqualified, Dangerous Driving and Failing to Stop for Police. He will reappear in the Taupo District Court on 29 June 2011 for sentencing in relation to the matter.

"Offenders who flee from Police and put themselves and innocent road users at risk will be subjected to the full pressure of our resources and will be held to account for their actions."Public help locate dangerous driver