Coffs Harbour Police Pursuit Leads to Teen Charges

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Two teenagers have been formally charged following a police operation targeting vehicle theft and associated criminal activities across New South Wales. The matter is part of Operation Soteria, an ongoing law enforcement initiative aimed at reducing vehicle-related crime in the region.

Among the accused is a 14-year-old boy who faces multiple charges stemming from incidents involving unlawful vehicle use and other offences. The charges against the boy include being carried in a conveyance taken without the owner’s consent and driving a conveyance taken without the owner’s consent. These charges relate to the alleged unauthorised use of a motor vehicle without the permission of its owner, which constitutes a serious criminal offence under New South Wales law.

Further charges include two counts of police pursuit, specifically for failing to stop when directed by police and for driving dangerously during the pursuit. The boy also faces two counts of driving recklessly, furiously, or in a manner dangerous to the public. These offences reflect conduct that endangered public safety and breach the Road Transport Act 2013 (NSW).

In addition to the vehicle-related offences, the boy is charged with committing and disseminating an offence under section 154A of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW). This section addresses the unlawful recording or distribution of images or videos related to criminal activity.

The 14-year-old has also been charged with driving without ever having held a licence, a further breach of road safety regulations. Custody of a knife in a public place is another charge laid against the boy, which carries serious implications under weapons legislation in New South Wales. Finally, the boy faces charges for failing to provide particulars to another driver after a traffic incident, an offence requiring motorists to exchange necessary information following collisions or damage.

Both teenagers involved in the investigation were refused bail and are scheduled to appear before a children’s court on Friday, 8 August 2025. Details regarding the second teenager’s specific charges have not been disclosed publicly.

Operation Soteria continues as an active investigation led by the New South Wales Police Force. The operation focuses on disrupting vehicle theft and related offences by targeting offenders and recovering stolen vehicles.

Police have urged members of the public who may have information relevant to this case or other vehicle-related crimes to come forward. Tip-offs can be made confidentially through Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers website.

The New South Wales Police Force reiterates its commitment to public safety and the effective enforcement of laws governing road use and property protection. Authorities continue to work diligently to hold offenders accountable and to reduce the impact of vehicle-related crime across the state.