A man arrested earlier this year outside a Griffith childcare centre has been sentenced over multiple police pursuits and driving whilst disqualified charges.
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Anthony Lawler, aged 21, was arrested in February after a police operation that saw him jump multiple residential fences and before he was apprehended at a centre on Merrigal Street, Griffith.
He was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, with a non-parole period of nine months.
Police say he had been involved in two separate pursuits beginning in Yenda and Griffith, respectively.
The latter occurred on February 10 when officers received a call saying two people wearing NSW Police shirts had been seen entering a white model utility in Griffith.
Officers say they began to search for the vehicle. When one matching its description was seen on Cutler Ave, Griffith, Mr Lawler was recognised as being behind the wheel.
The chase continued down Wyangan Ave where Mr Lawlor cut off a vehicle at the roundabout, forcing another drive to slam on the breaks to avoid a collision.
He then continued down Messner Street, swerving into the eastbound lane despite an oncoming car. Police say he exhibited “no regard to other road users”.
The pursuit was terminated at Nelson Drive due to concerns about safety.
Officers reported seeing the Mr Lawler at 3.50pm in Yenda as they patrolled the area in an unmarked sedan.
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He was seen getting into the passengers side, allegedly getting into the car and taking off toward Griffith once he spotted police, activating another chase.
During this second chase, officers say Mr Lawlor drove against the flow of traffic, almost hitting cars.
He was eventually observed by highway patrol as he made his way back into Griffith. Police say Mr Lawlor overtook a truck on the left-hand side, the back end of his car fishtailing.
Mr Lawlor allegedly drifted at the Willandra – Merrigal Street roundabout, narrowly missing the kerb. It is alleged he passed Griffith High School at no less than 70 kilometres per hour.
Another search for Mr Lawlor commenced at 2.15pm on February 14. He was spotted by police on Middleton Ave when the foot-chase commenced.
He was arrested and taken to Griffith Police Station.
