An active police officer in Virginia Beach has been charged with two counts of petty larceny. The charges were filed against a 16-year veteran and were made after a week-long investigation into thefts at the precinct during the month of December. The 56-year-old officer was released on his own recognizance following the arrest, and the matter will now proceed to be heard by the criminal courts.

While the alleged offense took place at the 2nd precinct in Virginia Beach, the items taken apparently did not directly belong to the police department. At the time of this report, it had not been revealed exactly what was taken, only that it was personal property. Whether or not the personal property was evidence held in connection with a criminal charge or was the personal property of someone else is not clear. Nevertheless, the experienced patrol officer has been placed on suspension following the allegations, and will remain inactive until the investigation into the larceny is completed.

Crimes involving petty larceny happen quite often in the surrounding areas of Virginia Beach. The police officer or others in the Virginia Beach area similarly charged with the crime of larceny would benefit greatly by utilizing the help of a criminal law attorney. The knowledge of a professional lawyer in these matters might help to diffuse the matter, as well as clarify the details of the situation to the person charged with the crime and also the courts. The attorney can work to ensure that the officer receives a fair hearing and that all of his legal rights are fully protected in the fight for an acquittal or other acceptable resolution.

Source: pilotonline.com, "Va. Beach officer charged with misdemeanor larceny," Lauren King, Dec. 7, 2011