A long-serving officer in the Manx police has appeared in court charged with theft and dishonesty offences.

Constable Kevin Williams, who has served with the Manx force for more than 20 years, was suspended in mid-September last year.

Before his suspension, Constable Williams was head of the search team and also chairman of the Isle of Man Police Federation.

A police spokesman confirmed: ’Kevin Williams, a serving police officer with Isle of Man Constabulary, who has been suspended since September 12, appeared at court on Friday, April 27.

’He appeared after being charged with theft and dishonesty offences. We have no further comment at this time.’

Constable Williams appeared before Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes.

He was bailed to his next court appearance on May 15.