Police investigating a burglary at St Stephen’s Church in Bournemouth have released a CCTV image of the suspect and images of the stolen items. The incident occurred on Friday, June 9, 2023, at approximately 09.30 when an unidentified man entered the church located in St Stephen’s Way. Once inside, the suspect gained access to a private area and caused damage to several items.
Investigations revealed that a silvery sanctuary lamp, a statue of Our Lady of Walsingham, and a gold palm frond (described as a gold palm leaf) were stolen from the church premises. In an effort to assist with the investigation, Police Community Support Investigator Rachael Buller of Bournemouth police has appealed to the public for any information regarding the burglary or the identity of the suspect captured in the CCTV image.
The released images of the stolen items are described as distinctive, and the police urge anyone who may have come across these items or observed them for sale to contact Dorset Police. The authorities are seeking assistance from the community to help solve this case and bring the responsible individuals to justice.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact Dorset Police online at http:///www.dorset.police.uk or by dialling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230090398. Alternatively, individuals can provide anonymous tips through the independent charity Crimestoppers via their website Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.