# Perth reckless driving charge involving toddler

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/perth-reckless-driving-charge-involving-toddler
> Updated: 2026-10-02T05:58:58.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

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.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-02: Jake 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.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jake-douglas-smith-charged-after-toddler-allegedly-filmed-steering-car

### 2026-09-12: Perth 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.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/perth-man-charged-after-video-shows-three-year-old-steering-car

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Cite as: Perth reckless driving charge involving toddler. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/perth-reckless-driving-charge-involving-toddler