The policeman was moved to tears when he explained on Tuesday how the case has affected his family and his job as a police officer. – I want to thank you for the time I have had in the police and look forward, he said, while he was crying. The policeman took home police equipment worth around NOK 700,000. By selling large quantities of this, he made around NOK 400,000. On Tuesday, he explained in court why he stole clothes, lanterns, belts and other equipment from the police equipment warehouse. Rebuilding and moving the police station meant that he could continue without the extent of the theft being discovered. Gry Berger is defending the accused police officer. She thinks nine months’ imprisonment is too severe. Photo: Remi Sagen / news – Should have realized When asked by the judge, the experienced policeman explained that the theft subsequently appeared unproblematic for him, and that he explained away to himself what actually happened. – I was in a situation where I couldn’t see how crazy what I was doing was, and that’s something I should have realized. I crossed a line where I also lied to myself to accept what I did and think it was okay, he explained. Møre and Romsdal District Court is handling the embezzlement case against the policeman. Photo: Remi Sagen / news Suggests nine months in prison The prosecution has proposed nine months in prison for the policeman. In addition, the Møre og Romsdal police district has asked to be paid back around NOK 400,000. The policeman was asked in court what he thinks about the length of the prison sentence. – Loudly, I can’t imagine how I will support my family if that becomes a reality, he explained in court. He also said that a prison sentence will mean that he cannot return as a police officer, and that it also means that he cannot get a security clearance for a long time. As a result, it will be difficult to get other relevant jobs in the future. Thomas B. Arntsen in the Special Unit for Police Affairs. Photo: Oddgeir Øystese / news Asked for a lighter sentence His lawyer, Gry Berger, emphasized that the case has also been a big burden for the family and asked that the prison sentence be reduced to six months and on conditions. The man has been suspended from his job in the police, but says it has been difficult to find new work. The policeman has laid all his cards on the table, and it is therefore a simplified trial in Ålesund on Tuesday. The verdict is expected later this week.
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