The Butler's son did it: Beckhams' theft new arrest

Oct 15, 2008, 11:00 GMT

09/26/2008 - David Beckham and Victoria Beckham - David Beckham and Victoria Beckham Launch "Beckham Signature" Fragrance Collection at Macy\'s in New York on September 26, 2008 - Macy\'s - New York City, NY, USA © Janet Mayer / PR Photos

David and Victoria Beckham's cleaners' son has been arrested on suspicion of stealing from the couple.

Gareth Emmett, 25, was held by officers at an Essex police station on Monday night (13.10.08) and quizzed about his alleged involvement in a scam which has seen a number of personal items taken from the pair's Hertfordshire home and posted on auction website eBay.

He was later released on bail but must return to the police station next month.

His detainment comes around 24 hours after his parents June and Eric Emmet were taken into custody to answer questions on the same allegations. All three suspects have been bailed until November 22.

The thefts were discovered when a friend of Victoria's parents, Tony and Jackie Adams, alerted them to internet listings for items including soccer boots worn by David and some of the former Spice Girl star's designer clothes.

It is understood detectives investigating the case have discovered an 'electronic' paper trail linking the missing items that have appeared on eBay to the Emmetts' home in Nazeing, Essex.

However, June and Eric - who have worked for David, 33, and Victoria, 34, for over 10 years - vehemently deny stealing from their famous employers.

Eric, 55, who is also the director of a Birmingham-based packaging firm, said earlier this week: "We're totally innocent.

"It's a total fabrication. It's all got totally out of control. There is absolutely nothing in it. We have never taken anything from them ever - end of story.

"We had free access to the house and I looked after the cars and other bits."

June, 56, added: "I have known Victoria since she was a Spice Girl and even before then.

'Would I really take anything? I don't think so. The story is total, total nonsense. I'm afraid we're scapegoats because stuff has gone out of the house unfortunately."

Eric - who has revealed neither he nor his wife ever signed a confidentiality agreement - is also threatening to lift the lid on the couple's personal life.

He said: "At the moment we are only allowed to say certain things until the police have finished their investigations, but things which have happened during our time with the Beckhams can all come out. We have a lot of stories."