In a shocking breach of trust, PC Craig Carter, a 51-year-old officer from the Metropolitan Police, pleaded guilty today to stealing money from the corpse of an Italian filmmaker on a busy London street. The incident, which involved the theft of £115, occurred between September 7 and September 14, 2022.
The victim, Claudio Gaetani, 45, tragically passed away from a heart attack during the morning rush hour while cycling in Haringey, north London. He was en route to meet friends with whom he was staying in the nearby area of Hornsey. Gaetani had arrived in London just the night before to participate in a theatre festival at the Southbank.
PC Carter, who appeared at Wood Green Crown Court, admitted to the charge of misconduct in public office. The court heard that he had taken the money from Gaetani’s wallet, which was part of the evidence collected at the scene where Gaetani lay deceased for six hours awaiting an undertaker.
Judge Daniel Fugallo, presiding over the case, indicated that an immediate custodial sentence was likely, emphasizing the gravity of the officer’s misconduct. Carter has been granted unconditional bail and is scheduled for sentencing on September 13.
Carter has been suspended from duty pending further proceedings. He was serving with the Met’s North Area Command Unit, which covers Enfield and Haringey, at the time of the incident.
