Community order for shoplifting police officer

A Devon and Cornwall Police officer commended for saving lives has been given a community order after he was caught shoplifting.

PC Christopher Spence, 44, of Abbotsham, north Devon, appeared before Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday.

He had previously pleaded guilty to a charge of theft from a shop in Bideford on12 February.

Judge Stephen Climie said Spence had lost his good name and respect of his friends and colleagues.

Spence was seen on CCTV placing a number of items in his rucksack but only paid for one product which he kept in the open and left the store, the court heard.

The goods were worth about £30.

The officer, who was off duty at the time of the offence, is subject to misconduct proceedings within the force and has been suspended from duty since his arrest.

Warren Robinson, defending, said: "It's a tragedy of his own making. He has thrown himself under the bus."

He added the father-of-three had saved people trying to take their own lives and others from incoming tides during his police career, for which he had received many commendations.

Judge Stephen Climie said Spence had experienced a "moment of madness" which would end his long police career.

He added Spence had lost his good name and respect of his friends and colleagues.

He was ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work in an 18-month-long community order, plus pay £300 costs and £30 compensation.

Supt Toby Davies, commander in North and West Devon, said the force was "deeply disappointed" and wanted to "assure the community that the action of one individual does not reflect the values or integrity of our local officers".

He added: "As we move forwards, we will continue to be open and transparent, and hold ourselves accountable, and we will work hard to ensure that the actions of one individual does not undermine the confidence and trust we have worked so hard to build."

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