A total of 212 crimes have been reported at churches across the Westcountry over the last year, according to newly released figures.
Rural campaign group the Countryside Alliance investigated levels of lead theft and criminal activity at churches in the country following concerns flagged up by members of the organisation. A Freedom of Information Act request was submitted to Devon & Cornwall Police, among other forces, and revealed that churches across the two counties were not only being targeted for their lead, but that there were also multiple other crimes recorded including vandalism, assault and burglary. Devon and Cornwall saw 212 crimes recorded at churches, abbey and cathedral premises, chapels, temples and vicarages covering the period from July 2019 to September this year. The crimes recorded include five cases of lead theft, 62 cases of general theft, 80 cases of criminal damage and 27 cases of violence, as well as 38 burglaries. There was also one report involving a vehicle offence.
Meanwhile, Dorset Police revealed there had been a total of 66 crimes recorded at churches in the county, including four cases of lead theft in addition to 25 other general thefts.
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Judith is a believer, a lover of Christ and a Gospel freak person. A passionate gospel blogger and press writer. I work with GospelHitsNaija.net Media, no 1 Gospel music platform.
