A misconduct panel heard how James Durrance, a special constable with Essex Police, told Asda security and employees that he was an officer following the incident on June 9, 2016, and showed his warrant card.

He left after Met Police officers arrived but later received a call from an acting inspector to discuss his involvement in the incident.

Mr Durrance was not open and honest during this conversation and knowingly gave a false account.

On Thursday, the panel ruled his behaviour breached the standards of professional behaviour relating to authority, respect and courtesy, and discreditable conduct, and dismissed him without notice.

Supt Cat Barrie said: “James Durrance used his position of trust and his warrant card to try and influence others during an alleged crime.

“He then spoke to store employees disrespectfully when they questioned his motives and he failed to give a true account of the incident to a senior officer at another police force.

“His actions have fallen well short of the standards we demand we have had no choice but to dismiss him.”