A woman has been fined after refusing to identify the driver of a vehicle allegedly involved in a high-speed police pursuit that ended in a crash in the New South Wales Mid North Coast region. The case has drawn attention to laws requiring passengers to assist police investigations in certain circumstances.
Anne Kamoto, 39, was convicted in her absence at Coffs Harbour Local Court and fined $1,000 for failing to disclose the identity of the driver connected to the incident. The court heard she faced a single charge relating to her refusal to provide information about the person allegedly driving the vehicle during the pursuits.
According to police, the incident began on 10 April 2026 when Highway Patrol officers attempted to stop a vehicle displaying handwritten registration plates on West High Street in Coffs Harbour at about 2:25pm. Instead of stopping, the vehicle allegedly continued travelling and reached speeds of up to 130 kilometres per hour in an 80km/h zone.
The pursuit came to an end on Parker Road in Lanitza, where the vehicle crashed into a tree. Police attended the scene and arrested Kamoto, who was a passenger in the vehicle. Officers allege she refused to identify the driver despite repeated requests during the investigation.
Police further allege that the vehicle had been stolen earlier that day following a break-in at a residence on Angouri Street in Tucabia. Investigators conducted an extensive search of the crash site and surrounding area in an attempt to locate any additional occupants, but no other individuals were found. The alleged driver remains outstanding.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and are working to identify and locate the person who was allegedly behind the wheel. Police have appealed to members of the public who may have information about the incident or the driver's whereabouts to come forward and assist investigators.
The case highlights the serious consequences associated with failing to cooperate with lawful police inquiries. While Kamoto was not charged in relation to the alleged driving offences, the court's decision demonstrates that passengers can face penalties if they refuse to provide information required by investigators during criminal inquiries.
The incident also serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with high-speed pursuits. Police frequently warn that excessive speed and attempts to evade officers can place motorists, passengers and other road users at significant risk of harm. Investigators continue to encourage community members to report suspicious activity and provide information that may assist ongoing investigations.
The matter involving Anne Kamoto has now concluded, but inquiries into the identity and whereabouts of the alleged driver remain ongoing
