A couple will face court charged with numerous offences spanning the Sydney Metropolitan area and the Riverina following their arrest at Lake Albert yesterday.
Between Tuesday 27 February 2024 and Tuesday 26 March 2024, detectives from Cumberland Police Area Command commenced an investigation into the activities of a 31-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, who were identified as being involved in alleged multiple fraud incidents across the Sydney and Newcastle areas.
On Tuesday (26 March 2024), officers from the Riverina Police District Proactive Crime Team received a report of a fraud at a retail outlet at East Wagga Wagga.
Following a joint investigation, about 11.00am yesterday (Wednesday 27 March 2024), police went to a house in Angel Place, Lake Albert. A 31-year-old man was arrested after he ran from the house and scaled the roof of a nearby house. A 25-year-old woman was arrested inside the house without incident.
Police executed a search warrant at the house and allegedly located a large quantity of electrical equipment and paperwork connected to multiple fraud matters.
Officers also seized a white Subaru WRX sedan. Inquiries revealed the car was reported stolen from Marrickville on 16 March 2024. A search of the vehicle located a small calibre handgun. Inquiries continue in relation to the vehicle and the firearm, which will be subject to forensic examination and ballistic testing.
The pair were taken to Wagga Wagga Police Station where the man was charged with 9 offences:
- Dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception – two counts
- Participate in a criminal group and contribute to criminal activity
- Drive with expired licence
- Police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly – two counts
- Drive vehicle while illicit drug present in blood
- Goods in custody
- An outstanding warrant
The woman was also charged with nine offences;
- Dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception – six counts
- Participate in a criminal group and contribute to criminal activity
- Knowingly deal with proceeds of crime
- Deal with identity information to commit an indictable offence
The offences are alleged to have occurred at East Wagga, Castle Hill, Manly, Mereweather, Bankstown Newcastle East and Rutherford.
They were both refused bail to appear before Wagga Wagga Local Court today (Thursday 28 March 2024).
Inquiries continue and it is expected further charges will be laid.
