Trading standards officer in court over seized goods plot » Local Government » 24dash.com

A police officer and a trading standards official from Liverpool have appeared in court after allegedly plotting to steal counterfeit goods which had been seized by the authorities.

PC Stephen Anderson, 45, and David Appleton, 52, an officer with Liverpool Trading Standards, have been charged in connection with the alleged plot.

The pair appeared before South Sefton Magistrates' Court charged with conspiracy to steal.

It is understood the allegations relate to counterfeit cigarettes, clothing and other property which had been seized by Liverpool City Council.

Two other men, Kevin Ross, 49, from Anfield and Gary Birch, 36, from Walton, have also been charged with the same offence.

A spokeswoman for Merseyside Police confirmed the four men were charged with conspiracy to steal last Thursday.

PC Anderson, who is currently suspended from his position with Merseyside Police, and Mr Appleton were originally arrested last May.

A spokesman for Liverpool City Council refused to say whether Mr Appleton had also been suspended.

The men were bailed to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on May 29.