An alleged serial shoplifter has been arrested in Port Stephens after allegedly ripping off stores, nabbing an $11,000 haul.
In July 2026, Port Stephens-Hunter Police District officers launched an investigation into a number of shoplifting offences from retailers in the Salamander Bay and Nelson Bay areas.
Following extensive inquiries, about 8.30pm on Saturday August 8, police arrested 27-year-old man Zachery Scott Caban on Pirralea Parade at Nelson Bay.
Port Stephens-Hunter Police District inspector David Donovan said police investigate all reports of shoplifting.
"Any form of stealing impacts individuals, businesses and the local community," Inspector Donovan said.
"Our officers will continue to work proactively with the public and local retailers to identify and disrupt anyone committing a crime."
Caban was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station, where he was charged with 38 offences; 29 counts of shoplifting, five counts of destroy or damage property, three counts of larceny and one charge of common assault.
He was held in custody before appearing before bail court on Sunday where he was granted bail and ordered to not attend any premises where alcohol is served or sold.
Police allege Caban shoplifted a number of items from retail stores over a period of about eight months. The value of the allegedly stolen items is more than $11,000.
