A man has been charged following an investigation into a spate of break and enter offences north of Wollongong at the weekend.
Officers from Wollongong Police District commenced an investigation following more than 20 reports of cars and properties being broken into in the Thirroul, Woonona and Bulli areas between Friday 17 and Monday 20 January 2020.
Following extensive inquiries, about 3am yesterday (Tuesday 21 January 2020) police executed a search warrant at a home in Woonona.
Officers located and seized a large amount of property, medication and prescriptions believed to be stolen from cars, homes and businesses in the northern Illawarra suburbs.
About 9.30am, police located a man in Woonona who was allegedly attempting to evade police.
Following a short foot pursuit through bushland and a creek, a 28-year-old man was arrested and taken to Wollongong Police Station.
The man was charged with 23 counts of larceny, two counts of break, enter and steal, two counts of take and drive conveyance, two counts of possess prescribed restricted substance, two counts of drive whilst suspended, dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception, escape police custody, resist arrest and breach of bail.
He was refused bail and is due to face Wollongong Local Court today (Wednesday 22 January 2020).
A male senior constable sustained injuries to his knee and was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance Paramedics before being taken to Wollongong Hospital for treatment.
Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Evan Quarmby said the arrest serves as a reminder to anyone thinking of engaging in criminal activity.
"We have seen some fantastic work by our uniformed police in locating the man we allege is responsible for a large number of thefts," Superintendent Quarmby said.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to remind the public to make sure that homes are locked and secured, security systems are installed and activated, and cars are locked.
"Please remember to keep your valuables safe, and if you see something – say something. We rely on the public to report suspicious behaviour, and we also rely on people reporting any property that has been stolen so we can investigate appropriately."
Anyone with information about suspicious behaviour is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
