Cop dismissed for Woolies trolley dash

A CAPE Town police officer was dismissed from SAPS after attempting to steal a trolley full of groceries from Woolworths.

The officer, identified only as Warrant Officer GF Madeley stationed at the Nyanga Police Station, was arrested in January 2022 at Canal Walk shopping mall.

According to a judgment in the Labour Court, Madeley entered the store with a trolley filled with empty bags, which he proceeded to fill with various items before attempting to exit without paying. Upon being stopped by store security, Madeley made a dash for the exit, a choice that ultimately led to his arrest. 

He was charged with misconduct and was further accused of theft and of tarnishing SAPS's reputation and bringing its name into disrepute.

During a disciplinary hearing in February 2022, he admitted the charges and pleaded guilty.

In mitigation, he cited his 19-year service with the police, his status as a first-time offender, and personal difficulties, including alleged financial pressures and a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. 

However, SAPS contended that Madeley’s actions were calculated and premeditated. 

When making a ruling, the chairperson of the disciplinary hearing sanctioned him to a mere two months' suspension without pay. 

SAPS then sought to overturn the decision in the Labour Court.

Madeley did not oppose the application.

In her ruling, Acting Judge Deirdre Venter stated:  “The sanction of suspension was not reasonable and is therefore replaced by an order that the employment of the second respondent [Madeley] could be terminated with immediate effect.”