Peterborough burglar who stole children's hospice charity tin sentenced

A Peterborough burglar who broke into a shop stealing a charity tin has been ordered to complete drug treatment.
By Stephen Briggs
Published 8th Dec 2020, 17:06 BST
Updated 8th Dec 2020, 17:10 BST
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Christopher Maher, 39, broke into QD Stores in Ortongate Centre just after midnight on 8 October this year.

Responding to the intruder alarm, officers from the Acquisitive Crime Team arrived at the scene and caught Maher in the act, leaving the front of the store via a smashed window and trailing blood on the ground.

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He tried to escape after dumping a holdall, shopping basket and plastic bin filled with stolen goods, but was unable to out-run the officers.

Maher broke into the shop earlier this yearMaher broke into the shop earlier this year
Maher broke into the shop earlier this year

Among the stolen goods was a charity collection tin for the East Anglia Children’s Hospice.

Maher, of Morris Street in Eastgate, was charged with burglary which he admitted in court.

He appeared at Huntingdon Law Court on Friday (4 December) where he was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years.

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He must also complete a 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement and a six-month drug rehabilitation requirement.

The charity tin was stolenThe charity tin was stolen
The charity tin was stolen

DC Adam Blake said: “From speaking with Maher it is clear he had turned to crime to fund his drug addiction. He recognises he needs help which has now been put in place for him to receive.”

Support for those suffering with drug or alcohol addiction can be found via the Aspire Recovery Service website.

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