NSW Man charged over 15 alleged fail to pay fuel offences
A man will face court after allegedly leaving multiple service stations in the state’s north without paying for fuel.
In February 2026, officers attached to Richmond Police District commenced an investigation following reports of a driver allegedly driving away without paying for fuel at a service station in South Lismore.
Police will allege the man refuelled a silver SUV on 15 occasions across six different service stations in the Lismore, South Lismore, and West Ballina areas.
Police will allege in court that the man failed to pay for more than $2,000 worth of fuel between Sunday 1 February 2026 and Monday 13 April 2026, including 10 separate occasions at the same South Lismore service station during that period.
Police will further allege that the man was, on occasion, using stolen registration plates during the offences.
Following inquiries, about 7.20pm yesterday (Friday 17 April 2026), police arrested a 29-year-old man on Dibbs Street, Coraki.
He was taken to Lismore Police Station where he was charged with 15 counts of dishonestly obtain property by deception, and two counts of unlawfully possess number plates.
He was granted conditional bail to appear at Lismore Local Court on Monday 18 May 2026.
Richmond Police District Commander Superintendent David Roptell says majority of service stations have high quality CCTV and it allows police officers to arrest the offenders promptly.
“The message from police to the offenders is clear. Fuel theft is a serious offence, and police will arrest those not paying for what they get and bring them before the court to face the consequences.”
“While the CCTV technology these days provide police officers with high quality vision which greatly assist investigations, it is even more important for business owners and staffs to learn the know-hows to prevent the potential crime and protect their assets.”
“Business owners are encouraged to reach out to Richmond Police District and arrange a visit by Crime Prevention Officers (CPOs) who can provide expert advice on how to proactively work to prevent crimes such as these.”
“If you find any suspicious customer, record the registration of the vehicle, stop the pump and confirm the payment method with the driver. The pre-paid fuel systems are an option for businesses, which can be discussed with CPOs.” Superintendent Roptell said.
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