Four arrested in police crackdown on anti-social driving in Taranaki

Police responding to anti-social driving in Taranaki over the weekend arrested four people, issued more than 50 infringements and impounded three cars and a motorcycle.

The ‘horrific driving’ was reported on Plantation Rd and Main North Rd on both Friday and Saturday nights.

“Police worked hard to stop and deter the burnouts, erratic driving, driving without lights at night and speeding,” Inspector Mark Miller said.

The Police Eagle helicopter was also deployed to Taranaki for the weekend to assist staff on the ground.

Among the dangerous driving seen by police, was a car driving at high speed.

“On Friday night, a driver drove past Police at speed that was almost twice the limit on the highway and was successfully spiked near Inglewood.

“The driver attempted to flee but was caught after being tracked by a Police dog unit on farmland,” Miller said.

Bottles were also thrown at police during the wild weekend on the roads. One bottle went through the back window of a patrol car. The officer inside was not injured.

The four arrests were for assault with a weapon, reckless driving, breach of bail and drug charges. Those arrested are expected to appear in court next week.

An additional 59 driving infringements were issued, one car was incorrectly registered, and six cars were marked unsafe.

Miller says he’s disappointed to see this behaviour in Taranaki.

“Driving like this puts everyone on the road in danger. We’ve seen the effects of dangerous driving and the very sad impact it can have on the community.

“People deserve to feel safe and everyone on the road is required to follow the same rules, no exceptions. If we see dangerous driving, we will take appropriate action.”

Police ask anyone who sees illegal or dangerous driving to make reports. Photos and video footage are also encouraged. Police say dangerous driving should be reported by calling 111 immediately.