Cumbria Police staff member found guilty of fraud offences
A member of staff at Cumbria Police has been found guilty of fraud offences.
Melvin McFadden was arrested following an investigation into fraudulent vouchers used in a supermarket.
The court heard McFadden, who was working as a front counter clerk for the force, had stolen the seized vouchers and used them to pay for fuel.
The 58-year-old, of Grange Gardens, Wigton, was sentenced to 84 days, suspended for 12 months at South Lakeland Magistrates Court.
The court heard the vouchers had been placed in the property store at Carlisle Police Station.
McFadden was responsible for destroying these vouchers but instead stole them and used them to pay for fuel.
Police said when McFadden was arrested he also was found in possession of £50 worth of gift vouchers and a pre-paid travel card.
Further gift vouchers and other stolen items were found at his home address, some of which he had previously claimed to have destroyed.
Deputy Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: "We are committed to serving and protecting the public and it is vital that our communities have trust and confidence in Cumbria Constabulary.
"We expect the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and conduct from all police staff at all times. We take any allegations of dishonesty very seriously."
McFadden pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation and three counts of theft by employee.