NSW police charge man over pursuit at Fingal Head

A man has been charged over a pursuit on the state’s Far North Coast overnight.

Just before 11.30pm (Thursday 7 May 2020), officers from Tweed/Byron Police District attempted to stop a Holden Astra on Tweed Valley Way at Condong for a random breath test.

When the driver failed to stop, a pursuit was initiated which continued through a number of towns. Road spikes were deployed at Tumbulgum; however, the vehicle continued on deflated tyres.

A short time later, the Astra struck a road sign on Letita Road at Fingal Head, before crashing into a bollard.

The driver and passenger were arrested and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station. The driver – a 30-year-old man – was then taken to hospital to undergo blood and urine testing.

During a search of the car, police seized items allegedly intended to be used in property offences.

The driver was charged with multiple offences including police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously, and drive vehicle under the influence of drugs.

The Murwillumbah man was given bail to appear at Tweed Heads Local Court on Monday 6 July 2020.

The male teenage passenger was released pending further inquiries.

Operation Marauder is a concentrated policing response to stolen motor vehicle crime in the Police District. Commencing on the 20 April 2020, Tweed/Byron police have arrested 31 people and charged them with 56 offences as a result.

Operation Marauder continues.

Anyone with information about crimes – such as these being targeted by Operation Marauder – is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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