Monitor this situation.
Unsubscribe anytime.
[SITUATION] · [QUIET] · [CRIME]
2 clusters · 4 sources · 20 days · First seen · Last updated
Perth reckless driving charge involving toddler
Overview
In September 2026, police in Perth investigated a viral social media video showing a three-year-old child allegedly steering a Toyota Hilux while sitting unrestrained on an adult’s lap. The footage depicted the vehicle swaying across a residential street in Alkimos, with an adult providing instructions to “go straight” and “go up the curb” before the car stopped on a footpath. Authorities described the incident as “deeply concerning,” noting it “could have ended in tragedy.”
On October 2, 30-year-old Jake Douglas Smith appeared in Joondalup Magistrates Court facing one count of reckless driving. Smith, representing himself during the appearance, declined to enter a plea. Following the court proceedings, Smith made several remarks to reporters, including a joke regarding his legal representation. His bail has been extended, and the matter is adjourned until late October.
Entities
Perth · Jake Douglas Smith · Joondalup Magistrates Court · Karl O’Callaghan · Michael Dalla-Costa
Timeline
-
[CRIME] 2 sourcesJake Douglas Smith charged after toddler allegedly filmed steering car
Jake Douglas Smith appeared in an Australian court charged with reckless driving after a video surfaced allegedly showing a three-year-old steering a vehicle while sitting on his lap.
-
[CRIME] 3 sourcesPerth man charged after video shows three-year-old steering car
A man faces reckless driving charges in Perth after video surfaced showing a three-year-old child steering a moving vehicle while sitting on an adult's lap.
Sources
7news.com.au · communitynews.com.au · perthnow.com.au · thewest.com.au