PC who stole from pensioner jailed
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A debt-ridden police officer, who betrayed the trust of an 80-year-old disabled pensioner he befriended while on duty and stole her pounds 7,800 life savings, was jailed for 18 months yesterday.
PC Trevor Standing, 36, who wept as the judge branded him a "mean, opportunist thief", stumbled on Kathleen Lyons' hoard of cash while trying to repair her television.
PC Standing, a father of three, described as "exemplary" after an 18- year career spanning both the Army and police force, hid most of the cash in the loft at his home, but used pounds 500 to pay off bills. He also used the cash to buy a second-hand television for Mrs Lyons and pretended it was a gift from him.
Passing sentence Southwark Crown Court in south London, Judge Geoffrey Rivlin QC, told PC Standing, of Sundale Avenue, South Croydon, that he had committed a "grave breach of trust".
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments