The driver of a stolen Chevrolet Cavalier is in custody after Victoria police placed a fake drug order to lead them to the accused.

At 8 a.m. on Oct. 1, a VicPD officer identified a stolen vehicle at Bridge Street and Gorge Road E.

The vehicle was followed through downtown until back-up units arrived.

Officers then attempted to box in the Cavalier at the intersection of Vancouver and Balmoral Streets, but the driver reversed into a police cruiser and escaped.

Police did not pursue the vehicle in the interest of public safety, but soon discovered the female passenger was a known drug dealer.

"By doing checks on her (in police databases), officers discovered she had a number associated to her," Const. Mike Russell said.

The officers ordered drugs from the woman and arranged to meet in Vic West later that day.

The woman then led police on a foot chase to an apartment in the 400-block of Catherine St.

Police were given access to the suite and found the woman and the driver of the stolen vehicle hiding under blankets in the bedroom.

"The Cavalier was located a ways away," Russell said, adding it was towed back to VicPD for forensic analysis.

Crown approved charges against a 26-year-old Saanich man, Christopher Spinney, for possession of stolen property, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, flight from police and failing to stop at an accident.

The woman was arrested but has since been released, but the investigation is ongoing.

dpalmer@vicnews.com