Two charged after alleged Pokolbin break-ins under Operation Ferment

newy.com.au – Two people have been charged after an investigation into a series of alleged break and enter offences targeting wineries and businesses in the Pokolbin area.

Police say several property offences were reported in recent months, with bottles of alcohol, electronics, jewellery, crystals and gemstones allegedly stolen.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District began investigating the incidents under Operation Ferment.

About 2pm on Tuesday, March 10, police executed a search warrant at a home on Michael Street at Cessnock. During the search, officers allegedly seized a number of items of interest, including crystals and five MDMA tablets.

A 32-year-old woman was arrested and taken to Cessnock Police Station, where she was charged with four counts of aggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company steal (value less than or equal to $60,000), possess MDMA in another form not exceed small quantity, and goods in personal custody suspected being stolen (not motor vehicle).

She was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 2 on Wednesday, March 11, where she was formally refused bail to appear before Cessnock Local Court on Thursday, April 2.

About 11am on Thursday, March 12, police executed a second search warrant at a home on Fleming Street at Nulkaba. During that search, officers allegedly found about 4.48 grams of a crystal substance in clear resealable bags.

A 31-year-old man was arrested and taken to Cessnock Police Station, where he was charged with two counts of aggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company steal (value less than or equal to $60,000) and possess prohibited drug.

He was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 2 on Friday, March 13, where he was granted conditional bail to appear before Cessnock Local Court on Thursday, April 9.

Inquiries into the alleged incidents are continuing under Operation Ferment.