Cop accused of nicking £53k from Heathrow passengers

A Metropolitan Police Detective accused of stealing £53,000 from passengers travelling through Heathrow appeared in court today (thurs).

Michael Harrington, 45, a serving financial investigator in the Met’s Economic Crime Unit, allegedly stole cash seized from passengers in a five-year crime spree.

He made records that the money had been returned but then contacted the passengers and told them the money would not be given back to them, it was said.

The Detective Sergeant is charged with 11 counts of theft relating to 11 separate victims between 2010-2015.

He was suspended by the met in July last year when the allegations came to light.

Prosecutor Jane Oldfield described the case as ‘a significant breach of trust.’

Harrington, who only spoke to confirm his name, held his hands to his face throughout the brief appearance at Westminster Magistrates Court today (thurs).

District Judge Richard Blake said: ‘My powers in this case are insufficient and I direct this matter to be sent to the crown court.’

Harrington was granted bail on the condition he surrender his passport within 48 hours.

He must also sleep at his home address, was given a curfew between 9pm and 6am and must report to Staines Police Station on Monday and Thursdays between 1pm and 3pm.

Harrington, of Parkside Place, Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, is charged with 11 counts of theft totalling £53,000.

He will next appear at Southwark Crown Court on June 16 for a plea and case management hearing.