Met Police Officer Faces Trial Over Alleged Gambling-Funded Fraud
A Metropolitan Police officer has been accused of obtaining money from multiple women to support his gambling addiction, as his trial continues at Southwark Crown Court. Lewis Rollins, 28, denies all charges, including coercive or controlling behaviour, fraud, and damaging property.
Defendant Claims Intent to Repay Loans
Rollins, who served as a police constable in the Met's central west command unit, testified that he "always intended to pay back" a £1,500 loan he received from one woman, Alisha Steeds, in May 2022 to cover his rent. He stated, "If you owe someone money you pay them back – you don't buy things, you don't go on holiday, you don't do things until you pay people what you owe. That's how I have been brought up." Rollins added he was "wary" of borrowing due to his own financial experiences.
Allegations of Coercive Behaviour and Property Damage
The court heard earlier allegations from Dr Georgia Miller, Rollins' former partner, whom he met on dating app Bumble in April 2022. She accused him of "losing it" and attacking her in a hotel room in July 2022 when he suspected she was texting an ex-boyfriend. Rollins admitted to questioning Dr Miller about messages he saw on her phone, which included a "winky face," leading to an argument.
He recounted unplugging her phone and throwing it onto the bed, but denied causing further damage, stating, "No, the only thing I threw was the mobile phone that I had plugged into the charger." Rollins also admitted to yelling insults such as "slag," "bitch," and "liar" at Dr Miller, though the couple later reconciled after a discussion with his father.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Rollins, from Fareham in Hampshire, faces two counts of controlling or coercive behaviour, one of property damage, and three instances of fraud. The trial is ongoing, with jurors hearing detailed accounts of the alleged incidents. The case highlights serious misconduct allegations within the police force, drawing public attention to issues of trust and accountability.
As the proceedings unfold, the court will continue to examine evidence from both sides, with Rollins maintaining his innocence against all charges. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for police conduct and disciplinary measures in similar cases.
