Three Men Nabbed for Stealing Priceless York Stone From Churches
Three men from Greater Manchester have been charged with stealing valuable York stone paving slabs worth thousands of pounds from outside churches. The stolen heritage stones were found across Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, and Cheshire, police revealed.
Heritage Crime Hits Ormskirk Parish Church
The first report came in February from Ormskirk Parish Church in Lancashire, sparking a multi-force investigation. The prized York stone, famed for its durability and beauty, makes it a hot target for thieves.
Four Police Forces Crack the Case
The suspects appeared at Chester magistrates today, charged with theft. One man also faces charges for handling a stolen vehicle and driving while disqualified, Cheshire Police confirmed.
The operation was described as a “fantastic investigation,” involving collaboration between police forces in Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Staffordshire, and Cheshire.