TWEED POLICE have charged a 29-year-old Elanora man with shoplifting and two counts of assault after he asked to look at an expensive ring in a Tweed Heads jewellery store and then bolted off on foot.
Police said it was about 10.40am on Thursday, April 27, when the man entered the jewellery store where he allegedly asked to see a ring valued an $1199.
The staff told police the man then ran off without paying for the ring.
Whilst running, it was alleged the man pushed one female staff member although the push did not result in any physical injuries.
Police said a second male staff member gave chase, however the thief turned and allegedly assaulted the second staff member resulting in cuts and bruises to the facial area of the staff member.
A security officer nearby was able to detain the shoplifter and police were called.
The ring was recovered and the man was charged with shoplifting, common assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
He was bailed to appear before the Tweed Heads Local Court on May 15.