Hartlepool scrap metal thief 'risked life' (From The Northern Echo)

Hartlepool scrap metal thief 'risked life'

6:30pm Wednesday 11th March 2009

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A THIEF risked his life by trying to chop down an electricity pole for scrap metal.

Police believe the person may have suffered severe scorch burns whilst cutting through an insulated cable running down a wooden electricity pole in Hartlepool.

"We believe the perpetrator tried to chop down the pylon so that he could steal the power lines and sell them on as scrap."

Acting Detective Inspector Lee Rukin

Michael Sargood, spokesman for CE Electric UK said: "We believe the perpetrator tried to chop down the pylon so that he could steal the power lines and sell them on as scrap. However as metal prices plummet, this certainly was not worth the risk."

Acting Detective Inspector Lee Rukin of Hartlepool CID said: "There is evidence to suggest the person may have been injured and this is a warning to those considering committing such acts. You take your life into your own hands and face arrest and prosecution if captured."

Up to 50 homes in Elwick Road, Newlands Avenue, Northbrook Court and Queensbury Avenue were left without power from 7pm until midnight on Monday.

Mr Rukin added: "This act of criminality caused inconvenience to many families in a small area. Information from the electric company suggests the person responsible is lucky to be alive."

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Hartlepool Police on 01642-302126 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

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