A Fraser Rise man has been charged after allegedly striking a police officer with a stolen vehicle in Diggers Rest on Wednesday, November 6.
Police said stolen Toyota RAV4 was seen in Diggers Rest about 1.30pm, with officer deploying stop sticks on Aviation Drive in a bid to halt the vehicle.
The driver, a 33-year-old Fraser Rise man and his passenger, a 27-year-old man from Mernda, sped off in the car, which allegedly struck a police officer.
The male senior constable was taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Police said the Toyota was then dumped on Plumpton Road near the Melton Highway and the occupants jumped into the tray of a Ute, which was allegedly driven by a female.
The Ute was then dumped at the carpark of Watergardens Shopping Centre in Taylors Lakes.
The two men were arrested inside the shopping centre.
Police said the female fled the scene and investigators are making inquiries into her whereabouts.
The Fraser Rise man was charged with multiple offences including aggravated intentional exposure of police officer to risk by driving (motor vehicle stolen), dangerous driving causing serious injury, reckless conduct endangering life, dangerous driving while being pursued by police, theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a prohibited weapon without exemption or approval and possession of a drug of dependence.
The Mernda man was released pending further inquiries.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 33 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
