Police officer denies shoplifting charges due to temporary ‘insanity’

David Howarth is charged with five allegations of thefts from shops said to have occurred between March 18 and 30 this year.

The 46-year-old is a former beat manager for Gorleston, Cobholm and Southtown and has been a serving police officer for over 20 years but he is currently suspended from duty.

A spokesman for Norfolk Constabulary confirmed he had been suspended in April once the force became aware of the alleged offences.