A man and a woman were arrested at the weekend in relation to a series of alleged thefts and pursuits in Shepparton and other parts of Victoria, dating back to May.
Patrolling officers came across a vehicle parked on Sydney Rd, Wallan about 4.20am on Saturday morning, where they found a man and a woman asleep inside.
The pair awoke and allegedly tried to drive away, however officers deployed capsicum spray inside the vehicle.
Both were arrested and treated at the scene.
The 29-year-old St Albans man and 36-year-old Craigieburn woman were each charged with more than 40 offences related to theft and driving matters.
The incidents, which also included a pursuit, are alleged to have occurred since May 24 across areas including Shepparton, Bundoora, Kings Park, Campbellfield, Epping, Yallambie, Wahring, Seymour and Tallarook.
They also include an alleged theft from a bottle shop on Napier St, Strathmore, on Friday, August 2 during which cigarettes and alcohol were taken.
Both have been remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later this month.