Ohio police officer found guilty of stealing popcorn
TOLEDO, Ohio — A police officer in Toledo has been placed on unpaid suspension after he pleaded no contest to making off with caramel popcorn from a convenience store.
Authorities say the 52-year-old officer was on duty and in uniform on two back-to-back occasions when he took caramel popcorn from the Oregon Circle K.
Sgt. Richard Whitman pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor theft charge on Thursday. He was fined and placed on probation. He also paid back $3 for the popcorn.
The Blade newspaper in Toledo reports he will remain on leave while Toledo police conduct an internal investigation.
Whitman’s lawyer says he has no prior record and a sterling record during his 24 years as an officer. He also says Whitman is seeking professional advice from medical providers.