Overview
- Video and staff accounts show the actor was filmed vaping, swearing and arguing with Tesco petrol‑station employees in Harlow before officers arrested a man on 29 July.
- A spokesman for Essex Police confirmed a drink‑driving charge has been authorised against Shane Roche, 62, and said he is due to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on 9 September.
- Richie’s son referenced the arrest in a live show this week with a joke warning the audience not to drink and drive, drawing mixed reaction from the crowd.
- Tabloid reports have suggested the actor is struggling and that the BBC could take action, but those claims rely on unnamed sources and the broadcaster has made no public confirmation.
- Legal and safety context: smoking at forecourts is a criminal offence, retailers ban vaping for safety reasons, and a conviction could mean fines, a driving ban or imprisonment depending on court findings.