Charges follow taxi drive

A 29-year-old Warragul man has been charged with assault, theft and criminal damage after he allegedly assaulted a taxi driver who had to run to another car for safety.
In a series of events that unfolded on Friday night, police said the Warragul taxi driver was asked by a passenger he picked up in Lilleys Rd at 5pm, to drive him to Morwell.
When the taxi driver hesitated, police said the passenger reportedly became agitated and threatening.
Police said the driver took the man to Morwell, sometimes travelling at high speeds when the passenger allegedly asked him to drive faster.
Police said the taxi driver brought the man back to Lilleys Rd in Warragul where an argument occurred.
The passenger allegedly threatened the driver and used a metal pole from the glove box to strike the taxi driver on the arm and shoulder and damage the taxi interior..
Police allege the man also used the bar to strike the bonnet of a passing vehicle being driven by a woman.
The taxi driver sought assistance from another passing motorist who helped him to safety and contacted police.
Police attended at the scene where the 29-year-old man was arrested.