A man has been arrested after allegedly assaulting a female staff member whilst stealing items valued at $2250 from two Warragul stores.
Police said a 32-year-old Ringwood man was arrested shortly after the incidents at Kmart and Spotlight.
They allege the man attended Kmart in Hazel Dr at about 11am and placed clothing items valued at $550 in a bag, making no payment attempt before leaving the store.
The man then allegedly attended Spotlight, also in Hazel Dr, and placed a large number of stationary items in a bag. The items were valued at $1700.
When approached by a female staff member, police reported the man struck her to the head before running off towards North Rd.
Following his arrest, the Ringwood man was charged and bailed to appear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates' Court on January 29.