Richmond District Police arrested a man in Lismore this morning after he stole a car with a child sleeping in the back seat.

Police from the Richmond Target Action Group will allege that at 9am this morning, a 25 year old Ballina man attended a Union Street Lismore store and stole a bottle of drink.

"He has then entered a car that was parked outside the store," a police statement said.

"The owner had left his car only for a few moments with a 12 month old child sleeping in a baby seat with the air conditioning on while collecting some stock.

"The 25 year old then drove away quickly with the baby still in the back seat.

"The owner of the car and witnesses saw this take place.

"They approached the car, which was now stuck in traffic on Union street.

"A witnessed positioned his car near the stolen car in order to block it in.

"The owner and witnesses then tried breaking car windows in order to stop the driver.

"Two police vehicles were nearby and saw this take place.

"A Lismore Police Sergeant put his vehicle in front of the stolen car; the 25 year old reversed and slammed into a car behind him.

"Police removed the 25 year old from the car and placed him under arrest.

"The child was not harmed during this ordeal.

"Checks on the 25 year old's driver’s licence status revealed that he is disqualified until May 2040.

"The 25 year old has been charged with Illegal Use of Conveyance, Take Motor Vehicle With Occupant On Board, Use Offensive Instrument to Prevent Apprehension, Drive Whilst Disqualified 2nd + Offence and Larceny.

"He has been bail refused and will appear at Lismore Local Court today.

"The Sergeant who stopped the vehicle will be nominated for a Bravery Award."