Pair jailed for 'abominable' theft of charity boxes from Cheshire mosque

Two men stole charity boxes containing up to £1,200 from a Cheshire mosque. David Roberts, 42, and David Atkinson, 37, both from Bewsey and Whitecross, were sentenced at Warrington Magistrate's Court.

On Saturday, June 15, Roberts was caught on CCTV as he entered the rear yard of the Jamia Mosque in Warrington and forced his way into the building through the back door. Roberts, of Hanover Street, then searched the mosque, finding charity cash boxes police said contained around £700 to £1,200.

Roberts left the building before returning with a carrier bag. He then took the boxes. The following day he returned with Atkinson, of Winmarleigh Street, and the pair were filmed on CCTV climbing the rear fence of the mosque and attempting to gain entry by forcing the door open.

The pair then took ladders from the yard and used them to gain access through an upstairs window. Roberts climbed the ladders while Atkinson kept watch, but the two were spooked by a passing cyclist and left. Atkinson returned but was disturbed by members of the mosque who contacted police. Atkinson was arrested at the scene, while Roberts was arrested shortly after at his home.

Roberts pleaded guilty to burglary and attempted burglary and was sentenced to 26 weeks in jail. Atkinson was sentenced to 17 weeks in prison after admitting attempted burglary, public order and failing to provide a sample for a drug test.

Following the sentencing, PC Zackery Carlin said: “Stealing charity boxes, and those from a place of worship is an abominable thing to do. Then to try again, just defies belief. Thankfully, these two are now facing time in prison as a result of their actions and I hope this deters other opportunist thieves.“

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