A London man accused of stealing a van last week had his escape plan thwarted by police after officers worked to disable the vehicle.
At around 9 a.m. August 9, police were contacted by a woman who reported that her vehicle had been stolen from her home. Police took down a description of the van and its licence plate so they could begin an investigation.
Nearly 12 hours later, officers located the vehicle near Clarke Road and Dundas Street. Police say the driver took off at high speeds when officers tried to initiate a stop. Additional police officers attended the area and the vehicle was once again located a short distance away.
The driver reportedly took off again when police tried to stop the van. Police opted not to begin a pursuit and a description of the vehicle was provided to additional officers.
Later the same evening, the van was seen in the area of Commissioners Road East and Hamilton Road. Police used tire deflation devices and officers successfully blocked the vehicle in with additional cruisers.
The suspect was arrested on scene without further incident. No injuries were reported.
A 34-year-old London man is charged with two counts of dangerous operation, two counts of failing to stop for police, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, operating a vehicle while prohibited, resisting arrest, impaired operation, and failing to comply with a demand made by a police officer.
The accused was expected to appear in court on Monday.
