Man Arrested After Dangerous Driving Pursuit And Assault Allegations

A man is currently in police custody following a dangerous driving pursuit and subsequent arrest on suspicion of multiple offences.

The incident began in the early hours of Saturday, 16th November, when police received a report of an assault in the Listooder Park area of Saintfield. A woman alleged that she had been assaulted multiple times by a 30-year-old man and had received threats.

Local officers spotted the suspect's vehicle in the Saintfield area and attempted to stop it. However, the driver sped off, leading to a pursuit that was eventually terminated due to safety concerns.

Chief Inspector Flanigan said: "Our colleagues in Newtownards later located the vehicle and arrested the man. A search of his vehicle led to the discovery of approximately 1kg of suspected Class A drugs.

"A further search of the man's home address was commenced, at which our officers seized a quantity of suspected Class C drugs and drug-related paraphernalia. "The man remains in police custody, where he is to be interviewed on suspicion of 14 separate offences, including possession of a Class A drug with intent to supply, possessing an article with a blade or point in a public place, aggravated vehicle taking in which the vehicle is driven dangerously and driving with excess alcohol in breath."

Chief Inspector Flanigan concluded: "This a great example of partnership working by officers across two policing districts.

"Victims of violent crime should be assured that our officers will not rest until justice is served to those who have hurt them.

"The Police Service of Northern Ireland is committed to removing controlled drugs from our streets and investigating those involved in the supply of such drugs.

"I would ask if anyone has any information about suspected drug dealing in their area to call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, information can also be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111."