A man has been charged over numerous alleged shoplifting incidents in the Port Stephens area.
In July 2026, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District commenced an investigation into a number of shoplifting offences from retailers in the Salamander Bay and Nelson Bay areas.
Following extensive inquiries, about 8.30pm yesterday (Saturday 8 August 2026), police arrested a 27-year-old man on Pirralea Parade, Nelson Bay.
He was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station, where he was charged with 38 offences:
- Shoplifting (29 counts)
- Destroy or damage property (five counts)
- Larceny (three counts)
- Common assault
He was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 2 today (Sunday 9 August 2026).
Police will allege in court the man shoplifted a number of items from retail stores over a period of about eight months. The value of the allegedly stolen items is more than $11,000.
Port Stephens-Hunter Police District Inspector David Donovan said police investigate all reports of shoplifting.
"Any form of stealing impacts individuals, businesses and the local community," Inspector Donovan said.
"Our officers will continue to work proactively with the public and local retailers to identify and disrupt anyone committing a crime."
