Suspect charged over attempted Chocolate theft at Sainsbury's

A custody officer has been praised after he apprehended a suspected shoplifter during his break. PC Michael Butler was inside Sainsbury’s, in Perry Road, New Basford, when his attention was drawn to a man allegedly trying to enter the store through an exit gate.

It was alleged a man tried to steal three boxes of Celebration chocolates. PC Butler – who was in plain clothes – identified himself as a police officer and detained a man with the help of two members of the public.

During the struggle, the police officer was reportedly bitten on the hand. On-duty officers were called to the store and a 31-year-old suspect was arrested in connection with the investigation. A man has since been charged.

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Inspector Liz Gaskin, of the City Central neighbourhood policing team, said: “It is yet another reminder of the kind of dedication to public service our officers show every day, regardless of whether they’re on duty. I’d also like to praise the two members of the public who helped the officer.

"The suspect has since been charged and remanded into custody. He now awaits the court process.”