Teen faces assault trial after loader joyride
A 16-year-old who took a front-end loader on a night-time joyride across Christchurch continues to deny driving it at police and the case is heading for trial in November.
Judge Noel Walsh set the trial – before a judge-alone – for November 4 when the teenager appeared before him at a case review hearing in the Youth Court today.
The teenager, who cannot be named because of Youth Court restrictions, was arrested after the incident on June 17, which involved a low speed chase in pursuit of the loader from Linwood to Marshland and Bexley.
Police said the incident ended with the police firing tear gas into the cab of the vehicle and apprehending the youth when he jumped out. Police alleged a significant amount of damage was done during the incident, possibly amounting to more than $100,000.
On June 30 the youth did not deny 10 charges at a Youth Court appearance: several of intentional damage, unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, driving while forbidden, failing to stop for the police, reckless driving, excess breath-alcohol, and possession of an offensive weapon.
The police have withdrawn several other charges, including five more today.
But defence counsel Siobhan McNulty said the youth continued to deny five charges alleging aggravated assaults by driving the loader at police during the course of the chase.
At least five police witnesses will be called at the defended hearing for those charges on November 4.
The youth, who has full time employment, was remanded on strict bail conditions including a curfew, for that hearing.
Category: News
Subscribe
If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to receive more just like it.
Connect
Connect with us via: