By James Simons-
A police officer is the laughing stock of Somerset after trying to get a £70 refund for a razor he bought and used.
47 year old Paul Bird claimed the razor was unused , despite evidence of his DNA on it. The viper from Avon and Somerset was advised to drop the case, but continued with his pointless legal battle, taking it to the crown court.
After a dramatic court case, Bird was convicted for the attempted fraud and hit with a bill if £3,200. The former officer was subsequently fired from Avon and Somerset who were clearly ashamed of his dodgy antics.
Only yesterday, Monday, the eye of media.com told the disgraceful story of former Leeds Inspector, Keith Boots, who tried to put £700,000 worth of drugs including cocaine and heroine back on the streets for financial gain. Boots was jailed for 24 years for abusing his position of trust , as a judge told him he had disgraced the uniform he wore .
Why police officers cannot all at least lead by example and conduct themselves with integrity at all times is an eternal question.
Paul Bird was not content with the legal besting he received in the crown court and escalated his appeal to the Court of Appeal In London.
Finally after a long 30 months battle, he has finally got the message. The message is that if you try to defraud the system by returning a razor you have used, you will be found out. For crying out loud, this officer has lost his job , incurred over £3,000 is fines for the case, in addition to all the emotional stress that inevitably follows a case like this. All for a razor worth £69.99.
What he now needs is a long holiday away from England where he can forget his case and drown his sorrows.