Controversial burglar funeral cost £45,000 to police

The funeral of a burglar who was stabbed to death while he committed the crime cost the taxpayer £45,000 to police, new figures show.

Information obtained using the Freedom of Information Act showed that the Metropolitan Police deployed seven vans, four cars, nine motorcycles, two helicopters, six inspectors, 19 sergeants and 128 PCs to the funeral.

Henry Vincent was stabbed by Richard Osborn-Brooks in self defence after he was caught breaking in to the 78 year old’s home in Hither Green in April.

The death caused tension in the local community after Osborn-Brooks was arrested on suspicion of murder but later released without charge.

Following Vincent’s death flowers and tributes were placed outside Osborn-Brooks’ home but were repeatedly ripped down by angry residents.

Vincent’s funeral also saw members of the public through eggs, stones and bottles at the funeral guests, bystanders and members of the press.

The funeral itself is believed to cost £100,000.

The Metropolitan Police said: “The police officer costs were £44,643.39 (this does not include other operational costs such as the National Police Air Service, vehicle costs).”