Tuggerah: Alleged knife-wielding shoplifter, 31, arrested by off-duty cop

An accused shoplifter allegedly assaulted staff and threatened security guards before he produced a knife in a dramatic arrest by an off-duty cop. Here’s what we know.

The man, 31, was arrested by an off-duty cop at Home Co. Tuggerah, on Bryant Drive. Picture: NewsLocal

An accused shoplifter allegedly assaulted staff and threatened security guards before he produced a knife in a dramatic arrest by an off-duty cop.

Just after 8pm on Wednesday, emergency services were called to the HomeSuper Centre on Bryant Dr, Tuggerah, following concerned calls to police.

Tuggerah Lakes Police District officers were told at the scene a man allegedly pulled out a knife after he was subdued by the off-duty policeman.

It will be alleged in court the man initially attempted to leave a shop without paying for an item before he was stopped by security guards.

The man allegedly assaulted two staff members before the off-duty officer intervened.

Checks revealed the man had arrived in a stolen car. Picture: NewsLocal

Further checks revealed the man had driven an allegedly stolen vehicle to the home centre, which had been reported stolen from Wyong on January 6.

The off-duty officer — a constable attached to Mt Druitt Police Area Command — was not injured in the fracas.

The 31-year-old was taken to Wyong Police Station where he was charged with more than a dozen offences including shoplifting, larceny, common assault, being armed with intent, hindering police, driving a stolen car, goods in custody, having a knife in public and possessing drugs.,

He was refused bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on Thursday.