New Zealand Police. Nga Pirihimana O Aotearoa.

Better Work Stories

First Pursuit

I had been out of college about 3 weeks and it was 7:30 one week day morning.

I saw a vehicle run a red light so I attempted to pull the vehicle over. The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit was initiated.

I announced the pursuit over the radio but because I was driving on the border of our district, I was directed to change channel. Driving at speed, alone, in an unfamiliar area while attempting to change radio channels during my first pursuit (ever!!!!), proved to be a challenging task.

The vehicle I was pursuing led me through thick traffic and eventually entered a shopping centre complex, where it drove down a narrow service lane. Its path was blocked by a rubbish truck. When the vehicle attempted to u-turn, its path was then blocked by a tow truck.

Because the vehicle was isolated, I was able to take the keys from the ignition and place handcuffs on the driver. Next came two very distinct and memorable feelings. I looked up to see a group of spectators cheering and applauding me - strange... but cool.

Then, like something out of a movie scene, my entire section arrived and flooded the scene. It was incredible that they found me - given that I didn't know where I was.

It's an amazingly satisfying feeling to know that your mates will come find you when you need help in this job. Teamwork - that's what I love.

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