An ex-Devon and Cornwall Police Constable and former resident of Kingsbridge is being charged with defrauding an 81-year-old woman out of £18,000.

Mr Samuel Smith, 31, was off duty at the time of the alleged offences between March and August 2020.

The defendant appeared before Newton Abbot Magistrates Court, on Thursday 21st September, to hear his case will be adjourned to the Crown Court. No plea was entered for the eight fraud charges.

Smith formerly of Fore Street, Kingsbridge, now residing in London, was told that the case will be heard at Exeter Crown Court on the 20th October at 10am.

Smith has been granted unconditional bail.

Reporting restrictions are now in place as it is an active case.