Police in Guildford have unveiled the latest weapon in the fight against lead thefts – a weatherproof DNA-based grease.
Police say they are determined to crack down on the number of lead thefts throughout the area following a continued rise in the theft of materials, including copper piping and york stone, as well as lead, over the last 18 months.
Guildford Crime Reduction Advisor PC Graeme Ingate said: “Guildford has suffered a number of lead thefts, with thieves taking lead of almost any quantity, from a small roof over a porch, to large church roofs. If this is not noticed straightaway, it becomes a major problem, particularly if it rains which then causes more damage.
“The main reason for these increased thefts is because of the huge rise in the cost of these materials, making the risk of getting caught worth the extra reward. Offenders have been caught locally, but the crime still continues with materials being stolen each week. We also have a number of premises which have been targeted on more than one occasion when the lead is replaced and the thieves go back for more. We are urging premises to use lead alternatives but it is not always possible. For example, if the building is listed, there is a stipulation that lead has to be used.”
PC Ingate said police continued to work closely with the victims of the lead thefts, especially repeat victims, such as the Children’s Centre in Hazel Avenue, Bellfields, which has been targeted on three separate occasions, in October 2007, January 2008 and June 2008.
He said: “We are working closely with the victims of these crimes and in an effort to try and reduce these thefts, and to catch those responsible, we have purchased a quantity of weatherproof DNA-based grease. When applied to a material such as lead, it will remain on the surface and if touched, stays on the skin or clothing for some weeks. If either the lead, clothing or skin are examined within this time it is possible to say exactly which premises it came from. This will give us enough evidence to investigate the crime, and support a prosecution.”
PC Ingate added: “Thieves should be aware that we will be checking to find these DNA traces, and it will greatly increase their chances of being caught. It also means that those buying these stolen materials could also be identified, and investigated for receiving stolen goods. If found guilty both offences carry a heavy prison sentence.”
Premises that have applied the grease will also be supplied with signs informing potential thieves that the lead is covered with it to act as a deterrent. For further information, please contact PC Ingate at Guildford police station on 0845 125 2222.
