Former detective denies plotting to sell drugs ‘stolen from police stores’

Nicholas McFadden, 38, of Church Avenue, Leeds, pleaded not guilty at Leeds Crown Court yesterday to stealing a quantity of the Class A drug cocaine belonging to the force between August 8, 2010, and October 12, 2011, and stealing a quantity of cannabis between December 1, 2009 and October 12, last year.

He and his brother Simon, 41, of Darfield Place, Harehills, Leeds, denied two further charges of conspiring together to supply the drugs. Both also denied a charge each of acquiring criminal property, in the case of Nicholas between December 1, 2009 and October 12, 2011, and in the case of Simon between December 1,2009 and November 4, 2011.

The court heard that earlier this week the pair were arrested again and Nicholas McFadden has also now been charged with the theft of almost 60 kilogrammes of heroin and the brothers with a further charge of conspiracy to supply that drug.

Paul Greaney, QC, prosecuting, said it was intended all the charges be tried together and a provisional date was set for February next year.

The brothers were both remanded in custody.