Security warning over lead thefts
14th November 2009
A spate of lead thefts across west Surrey has led to police warnings to businesses and residents to protect their property. Police have dealt with incidents in which lead was taken from a boarded-up building in Merrow, from a school in Frimley, and from a house in Frensham.
In the first two incidents, lead was taken from roofs. At the house, lead flashing was taken from the windows.
The cost of damage at the school and house was £1,000 for each theft.
Supt Ray Marley said: "While the value of lead is not at the highest we have seen it over the past year or two, it remains an attractive target for thieves. "
He urged people to use weatherproof DNA grease, which could be applied to surfaces and would then stay on the skin or clothing of the offender for some weeks.
Crime experts were able to examine the DNA grease to find out which premises it was from, he added.
Source: BBC News - Surrey