The alleged driver of a stolen car involved in a police pursuit at Hurstville had committed the same offence previously and was on parole, police say.
A string of charges later laid against the man, 33, included four counts of stealing vehicles, police pursuit – not stop (second offence), drive while disqualified and revocation of parole.
The stolen car he was allegedly driving collided with a number of stationary and parked vehicles during the pursuit.
A police spokesman said, just before 4pm on Wednesday, officers attached to St George Local Area Command’s Proactive Crime Team spotted the Honda driving along Emily Street.
“The officers attempted to stop the vehicle and a pursuit was initiated when the driver refused,” the spokesman said.
“During the pursuit, the driver of the Honda allegedly collided with a number of stationary and parked vehicles, so officers terminated the pursuit for public safety reasons.
“A short time later, police located the Honda abandoned near Barnards Avenue.
“Several items suspected of being stolen were located in the car and were secured for forensic examination.
“Patrolling officers located two men walking nearby and arrested them.
“Both men were taken to Kogarah Police Station and, following further inquiries, were charged with several offences.”
The alleged driver was charged with four counts of stealing vehicles, five counts of dishonestly obtain benefit by deception, police pursuit – not stop (second offence), drive while disqualified and revocation of parole.
He was refused bail to appear at Sutherland Local Court on Thursday.
The alleged passenger, a man, 44, was charged with travelling in a stolen vehicle.
He was granted strict conditional bail to appear Sutherland Local Court on Tuesday, August 22.
Investigations are continuing.