Ex-cop remanded over obtaining items from police stores

A former police constable was yesterday remanded when he appeared before Principal Magistrate Melissa Robertson-Ogle on charges of obtaining by false pretence.

It is alleged that on July 13, 2006 at the police stores Parmanand Beekhan obtained by false pretence three pairs of black pants, and a number of other items valued at $16,500. On January 31, 2007 Beekhan allegedly obtained from the said place one pair of black boots, one pair socks and two pairs of black pants valued at $14,200. It is also alleged that on January 24, 2006 at the said police stores, Beekhan obtained by false pretence one pair boots valued at $7,500.

Beekhan, who had appeared before the court on a similar charge recently, told the magistrate that his cousin had authorized him to collect the articles.
Police Prosecutor Denise Griffith told the court that no civilian can be authorized to collect these articles, only another serving member of the force. Beekhan is no longer a serving member of the force.

The prosecution objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness of the charges and the fact that the accused had appeared before the courts on a similar charge and has returned once again.
Beekhan was remanded until May 27.