A man has been charged with impersonating an Australian Defence Force officer following an investigation into property and firearms offences on the state's far north coast.
In December 2021, officers attached to the Tweed/Byron Police District commenced an investigation into a number of property offences in the Suffolk Park and Benora Point areas.
During the investigation, police uncovered further offences in relation to the alleged possession and wearing of Australian Defence Force uniforms and service medals.
Following extensive inquiries, police stopped a vehicle at Stokes Siding about 11.25am yesterday (Wednesday 5 January 2022), and attempted to arrest the male driver.
The 36-year-old man allegedly became aggressive toward police and a struggle ensued, during which officers deployed OC spray, before he was arrested.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, police located a handgun and a large knife. These items, along with a mobile phone, were seized for forensic examination.
The man was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station, where he was charged two counts of steal property in dwelling-house, possess unregistered firearms, falsely represent to be returned soldier/sailor/airman, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, resist officer in execution of duty, two counts of goods suspected stolen in/on premises (not motor vehicle), and custody of knife in public place.
He was refused bail to appear at Lismore Local Court today (Thursday 6 January 2022).
