Arrests and Prosecutions In Worcester Metal Theft Operation

Steve Lloyd from SmartWater checks for forensic marking with a UV torchA man has been arrested and vehicles dealt with for a variety of offences in an operation held in Worcester yesterday to target those involved in metal thefts.

Officers stop-checked working vehicles in the Blackpole area while others visited scrapyards across the city to check on their operations.

One visit resulted in a number of items being seized that were believed to be stolen, including 20 assorted gas cylinders, nine brand new generators and a large amount of high voltage power cable. Approximately £3,000 cash was seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act, but the exact amount has yet to be confirmed.

A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of theft and also illegally abstracting electricity. He was released on bail pending further inquiries.

Several agencies worked together at the stop check operation at the Blackpole Trading Estate, including VOSA, the Environment Agency, Worcester City Council's Regulatory Services and Western Power. Local Warndon councillor Alan Amoss also attended.

20 vehicles were stopped in total and one man in his 30s was arrested and charged for driving while disqualified and without insurance.

Several vehicles were issued with prohibition notices and a number of drivers processed for illegal tyres, having no MOT, no driving licence and illegal trade plates.

This action follows the prosecution last week of a local scrapyard owner for failure to properly register with the local authority.

Ronald Calder of C and D Metals on the Blackpole Trading Estate was arrested on 23 November 2011 during a previous police and partner agency day of action against metal theft.

Calder was charged with an offence of operating as a scrap metal dealer not registered with the local authority and failing to notify the local authority of a change in registration details. 

He appeared at Worcester Magistrates' Court, pleaded guilty to both offences and was fined £200 with £85 costs.

Inspector Janet Heritage, local poling inspector for Worcester, said: "We take the theft of scrap metal seriously and continue to be proactive in tackling the problem and prosecuting those involved. 

"West Mercia Police is committed to working with our partners to target those unscrupulous individuals and traders who continue to deal in the illegal trade connected to all metal thefts.

"The recent prosecution of Ron Calder was a good example of how we are working together to deal with the problem.

"We are regularly visiting scrap metal dealers to ensure they comply with the regulations and to assist them with keeping their businesses legal and making it difficult for offenders to have an outlet for stolen property.

"Further checks on vehicles and dealers will take place in the months ahead. "

Issued: Tuesday 31 January 2012