A JUDGE yesterday criticised Cleveland Police for hectoring one of its own officers over the alleged theft of a computer games console.

Single mother Kerry Lockwood yesterday won her appeal against her conviction and sentence at Teesside Crown Court.

Judge Peter Fox QC said that two senior officers from the force interviewed Miss Lockwood over the theft of a Sony PlayStation.

"The interview was hectoring, argumentative and oppressive. No weight can be given to the answers that came from that interview," he added.

Miss Lockwood was given a 12-month conditional discharge after being found guilty of theft by Teesside magistrates. She was also suspended from duty.

During her appeal, Thomas Moran, for the Crown, said Miss Lockwood ordered the games console from catalogue firm Littlewoods but complained it never arrived. He said the £299 was refunded, but when police searched her home they found the PlayStation.

Miss Lockwood denied any dishonesty. She said she was waiting for Littlewoods to charge her the money after calling to say she had received the PlayStation.

John Elvidge, for Miss Lockwood, argued his client had no case to answer. His submissions were accepted and the case was discharged.

Last night, Miss Lockwood, of Ingleby Barwick, near Yarm, said she was unsure whether she would return to work.