Dad chided for letting 9-year-old son drive

A father has been reprimanded by police for letting his 9-year-old son drive through Mosgiel with a baby in the back seat.

Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond said police spotted a car turning out of Argyle St and into Bush Rd on Tuesday about 6pm.

The "small stature" of the driver was noted.

Upon the vehicle stopping, it was revealed a 9-year-old boy was in the driver’s seat, and his father was in the front passenger seat.

Snr Sgt Bond said police understood that the father was encouraging the son to drive the short trip home.

Also present in the back seat of the car was the father’s partner with a 2-month-old baby.

"The 9-year-old needed to wait another seven years before he was able to drive.

"We need to ensure all drivers must have licences."

The father was issued with an infringement notice, while the matter had been referred to Oranga Tamariki, Snr Sgt Bond said.

matthew.littlewood@odt.co.nz

 

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