TWO local men have been jailed following a burglary and theft of charity cash boxes at a Warrington Mosque.
David Roberts, 42, from Hanover Street, Bewsey and Whitecross and David Atkinson, 37, from Winmarleigh Street, Bewsey and Whitecross appeared at Warrington Magistrates Court on 17 June to be sentenced after admitting their offences.
Roberts pleaded guilty to burglary and attempted burglary and was sentenced to 26 weeks in jail.
Atkinson was sentenced to 17 weeks in prison after admitting attempted burglary, public order and failing to provide a sample for a drug test.
On Saturday 15 June Roberts was seen on CCTV entering the back yard of the Jamia Mosque and forcing his way through the back door.
He then made a search of the property and found charity cash boxes which had around £700 to £1200. He left and then returned with a carrier bag and took the boxes.
The following day both he and Atkinson were captured on CCTV climbing the back fence of the mosque and trying to gain entry by forcing the door open. The two men then took some ladders from the back yard and used them to gain access through the upstairs window.
Roberts climbed the ladders while Atkinson kept watch, but the two were spooked by a passing cyclist and left.
Atkinson returned but was disturbed by members of the mosque who contacted police. Atkinson was arrested at the scene, while Roberts was arrested shortly after at his home.
Following the sentencing PC Zackery Carlin from Warrington police said: “Stealing charity boxes, and those from a place of worship is an abominable thing to do. Then to try again, just defies belief.
“Thankfully, these two are now facing time in prison as a result of their actions and I hope this deters other opportunist thieves. “
