POLICE smashed a car window to arrest a man who they feared was about to harm himself.

Officers from Southend’s local policing team found a silver Ford Fiesta containing the 22-year-old, who was wanted on suspicion of numerous shoplifting offences.

He refused to get out of the car and as concerns for his welfare increased officers were force to break the window.

Two officers sustained minor cuts during the arrest.

The man has now been charged with shoplifting to the value of £459 and obstructing a police constable.