Cop accused of stealing almost four kilos of cocaine from his own force appears in court

A POLICEMAN appeared in court yesterday accused of stealing almost four kilos of cocaine — from his own force.

PC Andrew Talbot, 53, was arrested following an internal investigation by an anti-corruption unit.

The dad of two, who has been suspended, faces 13 charges, including taking 3.9kg of cocaine from Greater Manchester Police’s serious crime division between April 2017 and July 2021.

Details of the alleged offences include unauthorised access to computer systems to search for information about a particular man and woman.

It also includes searching for information about known or suspected drug dealers in the force’s area.

He is also accused of failing to comply with a notice made under section 49 of the Regulation Investigatory Powers Act.

The offense allegedly involves him failing to disclose the pin or passcode to a mobile telephone.

He also stands accused, along with Keith Bretherton, 49, of conspiracy to commit misconduct.

PC Talbot, of Leigh, Gtr Manchester, was due to enter pleas at Liverpool crown court but the hearing was adjourned until next month.

Bretherton, of Wigan, denied misconduct but admitted possessing 1.39kg of cocaine.

Both men are on bail and will next appear at court on November 9.