A dramatic police pursuit unfolded in Weston when officers from the State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad attempted to stop an allegedly stolen Subaru sedan traveling along Government Road. The incident began when the driver of the vehicle, a 48-year-old woman, failed to pull over as directed, prompting police to initiate a pursuit.
The pursuit escalated as the driver allegedly accelerated to speeds of up to 130km/h in a 60km/h zone, posing a significant risk to public safety. The chase continued through suburban streets until one of the vehicle’s tyres went flat, causing the car to collide with a gutter on Swanson Street.
Despite the damage to the vehicle, the driver allegedly attempted to flee the scene on foot. However, police were quick to apprehend her and took her into custody. She was later transported to Cessnock Police Station, where she was charged with multiple offenses, including driving a conveyance taken without the owner’s consent, engaging in a dangerous police pursuit, reckless driving, and possessing suspected stolen goods.
In addition to these charges, she was also accused of operating an unregistered vehicle and using a misleading registration plate. After being formally charged, the woman was granted conditional bail. She is scheduled to appear before Cessnock Local Court on Wednesday, 11 September 2024, to face the charges.
The pursuit and subsequent arrest highlight ongoing efforts by police to crack down on dangerous driving and vehicle theft in the region