A vigilant dog and its quick-thinking owner helped prevent potential car thefts in the early hours of this morning in East Auckland.
The Greenlane resident was woken around 3:45am by the sound of his dog barking and, upon investigating, saw two people with a torch apparently scouting parked vehicles outside his home. He immediately contacted Police.
By the time officers arrived, the suspects had fled in a vehicle. However, Police monitored their movements from a distance until the Eagle helicopter arrived to provide aerial support.
The fleeing vehicle was successfully spiked but continued driving, at times dangerously, including on the wrong side of the road. It was eventually abandoned in Ellerslie, where one suspect attempted to flee on foot.
A Police dog unit tracked and apprehended the driver nearby. He sustained minor dog bites and was treated at the scene. A second suspect, who remained in the vehicle, was arrested without incident.
A 38-year-old man is facing multiple charges, including failing to stop for Police, dangerous driving, possession of cannabis, and possession of an offensive weapon. He will appear in Auckland District Court.
Inspector Jim Wilson, Auckland City East Area Commander, said the alert resident and his dog likely prevented any vehicles from being broken into.
“This incident shows the importance of community vigilance. If you see something suspicious, don’t hesitate to call 111,” he said.
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