A 13-year-old girl has been charged after an alleged police chase across the Illawarra region on Tuesday afternoon. The incident began when police attempted to stop a stolen white Subaru sedan on the Princes Highway at Kiama around 12:30 PM.
Police Pursuit
The driver, a 13-year-old girl, allegedly failed to stop and a pursuit was initiated. The chase continued through several suburbs, including Kiama Downs, Minnamurra, and Shellharbour. Police deployed road spikes near the intersection of the Princes Highway and Lake Entrance Road, deflating the vehicle's tyres.
The car continued for a short distance before coming to a stop in a car park on Addison Street, Shellharbour. The girl was taken into custody without incident.
Charges Laid
The teenager was taken to Wollongong Police Station and charged with police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, and drive motor vehicle without a licence. She was also charged with two counts of possess prohibited drug.
Police will allege in court that the girl was driving the stolen vehicle and that she failed to stop when directed, leading to the pursuit.
The girl was refused bail and appeared at a children's court on Wednesday. She will remain in custody to face further court proceedings at a later date.
Community Reaction
Local residents expressed shock at the incident, with many voicing concerns about youth crime in the region. The Illawarra has seen a recent increase in vehicle thefts and related offences, prompting police to ramp up patrols and community engagement.
Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
