THE court cases which led to the acquittal of a policeman on a theft charge will cost the taxpayers up to £100,000, it has been estimated.

The cost was bumped up because during the first hearing "prejudical remarks" were given in evidence by a police inspector.

PC Andrew Whitefield, based in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, has always denied he stole a £1.50 pocket calculator.

Now Roger Benn, chairman of the West Yorkshire Police Federation, which supported PC Whitfield's case, is asking that the Crown Prosecution Service should justify the expense of two court cases.

Mr Benn said that anybody who actually did steal a calculator would have received an instant caution and be dealt with in minutes.

Perhaps. But the whole point is that PC Whitfield did not admit his offence. He was entitled to a trial, however much it cost. And the CPS thought there was enough evidence to take him to trial.

It will be a sad day for the British judicial system if cost is put before justice.

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