Drunk driver steals police car

A police officer had his patrol car stolen 
north of Wellington, on Thursday night. 

The officer was on his own when he stopped a 
driver who he suspected was driving while drunk. 

The driver failed the alcohol breath test, and while 
the officer was locking his car, he climbed into 
the patrol car and drove off.

He abandoned the police car after crashing it 
and causing extensive damage.

A police dog found the driver about 20
minutes later. He faces a number of charges.

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Published on April 13, 2001