A man has been jailed for stealing approximately £300,000 worth of copper from a factory in Tamworth, after his DNA was discovered at the crime scene.
DNA Evidence Leads to Arrest
Shaun Smith, 35, from Wolverhampton, was caught following forensic testing at the factory, where his DNA was found on several occasions. CCTV footage also showed him loading copper onto the back of a truck parked nearby, working alongside other unidentified men who remain at large.
Smith admitted burglary dwelling and theft at Stafford Crown Court and was sentenced to three years and two months in prison.
Police Statement on the Theft
Detective Sergeant Claire Rider, from Staffordshire Police's criminal investigations department, said: “Theft of this magnitude can have far reaching consequences for businesses, staff and the livelihoods of those involved. We are using all of the tools at our disposal to go after those responsible for these crimes in Staffordshire.”
The theft occurred in September 2022, and police have confirmed that Smith's DNA was found at the scene, leaving him with little choice but to admit his crime in court.
Ongoing Investigation
Staffordshire Police are continuing their investigation to identify the other individuals seen on CCTV. A spokesperson said: “CCTV from the scene shows Smith working with other unknown individuals to load copper from inside the factory onto the back of a truck which was parked nearby.”
The case highlights the significant impact of such thefts on local businesses and the effectiveness of forensic evidence in securing convictions.
