A MAN wanted for breaking into places of worship has been arrested and charged – by an off duty police officer.

Carl Weighman, 32, of no fixed abode, was spotted on a park bench in Chalkwell Park on Friday afternoon by PC Chris Daves.

He was out for a walk on his day off when he spotted Weighman, wanted for burgling the Essex Jamme Masjid mosque in Chelmsford Avenue numerous times.

Quick thinking Mr Daves flagged down his colleage PC George Rodway, who was cycling into work, and the pair followed him until back up arrived to arrest him.

He was taken into custody to be charged with nine offences.

He appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court yesterday to answer pleas of theft and assault.

He is alleged to have stolen a bag to the value of £3,200 from a library in Southend, and £503.90 on December 6 last year.

He is also charged with stealing three bike locks to the value of £64 from John Parker Motorcycles in North Avenue, Southend, on January 28 at 11.10am.

He is alleged to have trespassed in the mosque on January 30 and February 13. On both times he was challenged and fled.

The mosque has also had a charity box containing £300 stolen and in total has suffered four burglaries and attempted burglaries in a month.

Leaders said families were left scared after the continued attacks.

While in custody on Saturday **feb 28** Weighman is alleged to have assaulted four officers – PC Daniel Maddison, Det Con Andrew Copley, PC Steven Wells, and Sgt Mick Brunton.

He entered no plea in the short hearing at Southend Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

He was remanded in custody until his appearance at Basildon Crown Court on May 13.