Raymond Terrace: Man coughs Woolworths worker after argument at register
People are not getting the message about strict social distancing rules and behaviour during this COVID-19 pandemic, after a man deliberately coughed on a supermarket employee at Raymond Terrace.
Newcastle
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Police are on the hunt for a man following “dangerous behaviour” after he deliberately coughed on an employee at Woolworths in Raymond Terrace.
At about 7.30pm Tuesday, a man approached the Woolworths register before he started to have a verbal altercation with a woman employee.
It’s believed he then deliberately coughed on the 35-year-old.
Port-Stephens Hunter Police were contacted and have commenced inquiries into the incident.
They have released two images of a man they believe can assist with inquiries.
He’s described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 170-180cm tall, with a shaved head, and goatee-style facial hair.
At the time, he was wearing cream shorts and black thongs.
Anyone who knows the man or has information which may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
In the midst of a coronavirus pandemic, a number of COVID-19 ministerial directions have been announced surrounding social distancing rules.
Police now have the authority to issues infringement notices and fines to those who fail to comply with the orders, which can be $1000 for individuals and $5000 for businesses.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, has urged anyone with information to come forward.
“This kind of dangerous behaviour needs to stop immediately. It’s potentially putting the lives of workers and their families at risk,” he said.
“This isn’t a time to practice poor hygiene habits.
“For a disgusting act like this, you could find yourself charged with common assault and jailed for up to two years.”