Group including 11-year-old child flee police in stolen vehicle – Times

Four people, including an 11-year-old child, who tried to evade police during an incident in rural east Auckland were caught and taken into custody.

The incident unfolded in Clevedon at about 1.30pm on March 11 when police were alerted to a stolen vehicle being driven along Clevedon Road.

Counties Manukau East Police area prevention manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says the police’s Eagle helicopter was able to quickly locate the vehicle and provide commentary to staff on the ground.

“The vehicle has continued travelling through Clevedon to Maraetai and into Whitford at excessive speeds while overtaking traffic through road works.

“Staff have successfully spiked the vehicle just prior to Whitford [village]. Four occupants were taken into custody without incident.”

Cook says people who choose to drive dangerously are putting themselves and other members of the public at risk of serious injury or death.

“Drivers who are considering fleeing from police really need to think about their actions and think hard before they put themselves, their friends and innocent people in jeopardy.

“Police will continue to take decisive action where we can to ensure the safety of other road users.”

Cook says a 19-year-old male will appear in the Manukau District Court on March 19 charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

Three other people, aged 14, 13 and 11, have been referred to youth services.