Charges laid after alleged pursuit and aggravated break and enter

A man has faced court charged after an alleged police pursuit and aggravated break and enter in the state’s New England region, said a NSW Police Media statement released on November 11.

“About 4.50pm Saturday November 8, officers attached to New England Police District were patrolling Warialda – about 80km east of Moree – when they observed a Holden Commodore with irregular number plate placement.

“When the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.

“During the pursuit the vehicle allegedly turned off the Gwydir Highway onto a dirt track before returning to the highway heading west – at times on the incorrect side of the road – at speeds ranging from 140 kilometres per hour to 170km/hour in a signposted 100km/hour zone.

“The pursuit continued onto Eden Forest Road, Gravesend, before the vehicle turned into a rural property on Floods Tank Road and the driver ran from the scene.”

Upon searching the vehicle, the statement said police located and seized a wallet and what’s alleged to be drug paraphernalia. The vehicle was seized and taken to Inverell Police Station for forensic examination.

“About 11.45am Sunday November 9, a man was reportedly seen walking away from a shed on Glen Wood Road, Gravesend, carrying gun bags,” said the statement.

“Police were told the man allegedly armed himself with a double-barrel shotgun and allegedly threatened the homeowner – a man aged in his 60s – before turning and walking into bushland.

“A short time later, the resident allegedly heard a round being discharged from the firearm, before a large-scale police operation ensued with Western Region specialist units attending including Tactical Operations Regional Support, Dog Unit, Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Command and Aviation Command.

“Following investigations, about 3.45pm on November 9, police located and arrested a 35-year-old man at the Gwydir Highway, Gravesend. Nearby, police recovered a double-barrel shotgun wrapped in a camouflaged shirt.

The man was taken to Moree Police Station where he was charged with: Police pursuit – not stop – drive at speed; owner not disclose identity of driver/passenger; aggravated enter dwelling with intent – knowing people there; possess loaded firearm endanger life not public place; use unauthorised firearm; possess ammunition without holding licence, and Detention application – arrest.

He was refused bail and faced Bail Division 5 on Monday November 10.