Charity box raids of church thief (From Gazette & Herald)

Charity box raids of church thief

A THIEF who stole charity money from six churches across North Yorkshire has narrowly escaped a jail term.

Stephen Wallace, 42, of Orchard Park Estate, Hull, was given 100 hours community punishment and a 12-month rehabilitation order by Scarborough magistrates. He was also disqualified from driving for a year, ordered to pay £155 in compensation and £50 costs.

Wallace admitted two counts of burglary relating to the theft of £40 from the vestry at All Saints' Church, Helmsley, on May 17, and stealing a staff tip box containing £420 from The Blacksmith's Arms, Rosedale Abbey, on May 12.

Wallace also admitted stealing £8 from All Saints' Church, Helmsley, on May 8, possession of cannabis, driving while disqualified, and driving without insurance.

Five other thefts were also taken into consideration. They were at: St Chad's Church, Sproxton on May 9; St Felix's Church, Felixkirk, on May 14; St Gregory's Minster, Kirkdale, on May 15; St Heddas Church, Whitby, on May 18; and St Mary's Church, Goathland, on May 19.

Rosie McIlroy, prosecuting, said on May 17 police had received reports that Wallace had been acting suspiciously and details of his vehicle were circulated.

Mrs McIlroy said Helmsley community beat officer PC Ray Thwaites saw Wallace in his car, and then watched him enter All Saints' Church. When Wallace left the church, PC Thwaites found him to be in possession of Christian Aid envelopes containing cash. He subsequently admitted further offences - five other thefts from churches and the pub burglary.

Speaking outside court, PC Thwaites said: "I think had he not had been so co-operative with the police he would have received a custodial sentence."

Updated: 12:18 Tuesday, June 29, 2004