Policewoman faces shoplifting charge

London: A senior female police officer appeared in court on Wednesday accused of shoplifting make-up.

Chief Inspector Kim Molloy, regarded as a "rising star" within Nottinghamshire police, was stopped by security staff leaving a Tesco Extra in Top Valley on November 24.

After questioning by fellow officers, the 44-year-old was charged with theft. It is alleged she stole Max Factor cosmetics worth £12.72 (Dh72). She was not asked to enter a plea when she appeared at Mansfield Magistrates Court and spoke only to confirm her name and address. Her solicitor Ian Townsend told magistrates: "She is a serving police officer who clearly faces serious allegations given the nature of her position."

CCTV evidence would form an important part of the case, he added.

Suspended

Molloy was head of a community engagement committee as part of the force's offender management programme in Mansfield at the time of the alleged theft. She has since been suspended.

Molloy has been an officer for almost 20 years.