NSW driver charged after dam stand-off

A man who allegedly sparked a watery stand-off with police after steering a stolen van into a west Sydney dam has been charged with a string of offences, including negligent driving.

Police say they were investigating reports of an attempted bobcat theft at Orchard Hills in the early hours of Tuesday when a white van crashed through a fence and plunged into the dam.

The driver swam to the middle of the weed-covered lake and refused to get out.

He eventually left the water and was arrested.

The man has been charged with driving while disqualified, take and drive a conveyance, negligent driving, possessing housebreaking implements, and goods in custody.

He was refused bail and is due to appear in the Penrith Local Court on Wednesday.