By CASEY NEILL
YOU can run from police, but you can’t hide.
This was the warning from Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Scott Roberts after a hoon fled police in Dandenong South last Tuesday night.
“He took off at a ridiculous speed,” he said.
“Our guys had to abandon it because of the risk involved.
“It’s a bit concerning, the amount of pursuits that are occurring now.
“It’s becoming more prevalent.”
Sen Sgt Roberts said hoons that caused police pursuits faced three years in jail under laws introduced in late 2012.
The laws also include a mandatory licence or permit cancellation and disqualification for a period of at least 12 months.
“They will be charged and that will result in a criminal conviction rather than just a traffic matter,” he said.
“When they engage in that sort of conduct, the ramifications of what can happen are enormous.
“People could be killed.
“The repercussions of pulling over and doing the right thing are far less.”
Sen Sgt Roberts has instructed all Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol members to charge anyone initiating a police pursuit in every instance.
“The legislation is there and we’re going to use it,” he said.
“Whether the police stop chasing you on the night you will be caught up with and face criminal charges.
“Whether a car’s got bodgy plates on it, there’s all sorts of ways we can catch up with them.
“Your car’s going to be impounded and you’re going to be charged with criminal offences.
“If you’ve made a mistake, just pull up and accept the consequences.”
