Devon Police Officer Sentenced for Theft

Christopher Spence, a 44-year-old off-duty police officer from Devon, was caught on CCTV stealing snacks worth £30 from a Lidl supermarket in Bideford. He only paid for a loaf of bread while loading his rucksack with various items, including cheese and nuts, before leaving the store. Spence initially denied the theft but later pleaded guilty at Exeter Crown Court, where he received an 18-month community order, mandated to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, and pay £300 in prosecution costs and £30 in compensation to the store. He has been suspended from duty since his arrest and now faces misconduct proceedings. Superintendent Toby Davies expressed disappointment, emphasizing that Spence's actions do not reflect the values of the Devon and Cornwall Police, and urged the community to maintain trust in their officers. The judge remarked that Spence's behavior would likely end his police career, marking a significant fall from grace for the officer who was supposed to uphold the law.