Crime victim asked 'Are you here for the poker?' at police HQ

A man who went to Oxfordshire's police headquarters to report a burglary said he was stunned when he was asked if he was there to play poker.

Graham Hall, 68, went to the Kidlington offices after his home was broken in to and was asked by a security guard if he was there to play cards.

He said the guard told him there was no-one there to deal with his report.


Photo from here.

A statement from Thames Valley Police said: "Police HQ is not an operational police station so the gentleman was unable to report the crime at this building, and was advised to call our single non-emergency number 0845 8 505 505 which is the quickest and most effective way to report a crime.

"The gentleman's visit to HQ coincided with a poker evening organised by the Thames Valley Police Sports and Social Club which was attended by off-duty staff.

"The evenings are limited to a maximum of 20 staff, with a top stake of £2.50 a game and small cash prizes, and are intended to raise money for the Sports and Social Club. The nights operate fully in compliance with the licence held by Thames Valley Police HQ."