NSW police charge driver with mid-range drink-driving after pursuit

Four men have been arrested following a pursuit of a stolen car through several towns on the Far North Coast this morning.

The incident began about 1.55am (Saturday 15 February 2020), when police attempted to stop a Toyota Yaris – which was allegedly speeding – on Woodburn Street, Evans Head.

Police allege the driver ignored the direction and a pursuit was initiated between the townships of Evans Head and Woodburn, before it was terminated due to safety concerns.

A short time later the car – which has since been confirmed as stolen – was seen heading north on the Pacific Highway towards Broadwater.

A second pursuit began at Wardell and continued to Ellis Road, Alstonville, where four men – aged 19, 20, 22 and 25 – were arrested shortly before 2.30am and taken to Ballina Police Station.

The 22-year-old driver was subjected to a breath analysis which returned an alleged reading of 0.142. He has now been charged:

• Police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously (also known as Skye’s law) (two counts)

• Mid-range PCA

• Disqualified driver, and

• Take and drive conveyance.

The Ballina man has been refused bail to appear in Lismore Local Court later today.

The three passengers have been released pending further inquiries.

/Public Release. View in full here.