Police have described this week’s glassing attack on a young female Aldi worker at Rutherford as a disgraceful and cowardly act.
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Central Hunter crime manager Detective Inspector Mitch Dubojski said this was an act that the community and police will not tolerate.
Fairfax Media reported this week how terrified shoppers watched in horror as a young staff member was allegedly bashed with a bottle of bourbon while trying to stop two thieves.
The incident occurred around 4pm on Monday when two men aged in their mid 20s walked into the store’s liquor section, allegedly removed two bottles of bourbon from shelves and began to flee the premises.
The female staff member attempted to stop one of the men by grabbing his jumper.
An eyewitness who spoke to Fairfax Media said the man swung around and struck her across the face with the bottle causing her to fall to the ground.
Inspector Dubojski said police were examining CCTV footage of the incident to try and identify the people involved. No one has been charged at this stage.
"The lady was just trying to do her work and protect her employment," Inspector Dubojski said.
"She's received some medical treatment and she's trying to get back to work as soon as she can. She's obviously very shaken up about what occurred.
"If I could take this opportunity to thank the community for their information.
“We are receiving calls and information from the community about the identity of the people involved and we are hoping to progress that soon."
The Fairfax media report on the incident sparked outrage from readers. Some suggested supermarkets and shopping centres should employ security guards, others called for improved lighting in car parks. Anyone with information contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
"The incident was a disgraceful, cowardly act that the community won't tolerate and police won't tolerate".
- Central Hunter crime manager Detective Inspector Mitch Dubojski
