A Hunter Valley man accused of breaching domestic violence orders was allegedly discovered hiding inside a concealed man-made hole hidden behind a large dresser in a dramatic police arrest at Singleton Heights.
Officers attached to NSW Police Force say the investigation began in February 2026 after reports a man had allegedly breached an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) in the Hunter region.
Following what police described as “extensive inquiries,” officers attended a home on Wakehurst Crescent at Singleton Heights about 4.10pm on Friday, 15 May 2026.
Police allege they located 41-year-old MARK JOSEPH WALTERS hiding in a specially constructed hole concealed behind furniture inside the property.
The man was arrested at the scene and taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with a string of domestic violence-related offences.
The charges include:
- Contravene prohibition or restriction in an AVO (Domestic)
- Common assault (DV)
- Aggravated break and enter with intent knowing a person was present
- Destroy or damage property valued at less than $2000 (DV)
- Stalk or intimidate with intent to cause fear of physical harm (Domestic)
- Knowingly contravene prohibition or restriction in an AVO (Domestic)
WALTERS was refused bail and appeared before the Local Court Bail Division on Saturday, 16 May 2026.
Court records show Acting Judge C Longley formally refused bail on all six charges.
The matters have been adjourned to 15 July 2026, where they are scheduled for further mention proceedings before the Local Court in Newcastle via audio visual link.
Police investigations remain ongoing.