A METAL thief caught in the act of stripping lead from the roof of a listed building has been jailed for nine months.
Leon Hutchinson discovered details of the derelict brewery on the internet and decided to see what he could steal before redevelopment work began, Lincoln Crown Court heard.
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SOON TO BE RENOVATED: The Bass Maltings complex at Sleaford.
The 27-year-old, of Station Road, New Waltham, was arrested on New Year’s Eve after police were called to the grade two listed Bass Maltings, in Sleaford, near Lincoln.
The 19th century building is currently waiting to be developed into a multi- million-pound retail and housing site.
The court was told how Hutchinson was in debt at the time and needed money.
Andrew Scott, prosecuting, said the defendant was found inside the building along with another man.
The pair removed lead from the roof of the building, which is awaiting redevelopment, and were preparing to take it away.
“It was a planned offence,” said Mr Scott. “They were equipped with a vehicle and tools.
“Police were alerted by telephone calls from a member of the public who heard roof slates being broken.
“When officers arrived they entered the building cautiously. It was dark and there were gaping holes in the floor. It was apparent the two men were working together stealing lead from the roof.
“Officers saw the two men dragging lead behind them. As they exited, they were arrested.”
Hutchinson admitted burglary and possession of a bladed article, which was found on him following his arrest.
He asked for a further five offences to be taken into consideration involving breaking in to buildings at South Cockerington, North Ormsby, Manby Park and Tetford – and stealing metal, including lead, copper and brass.
A 19-year-old man who was arrested with him was released by police without charge after accepting a caution.
Judge Michael Heath told Hutchinson: “Metal theft is a serious problem nationally and in Lincolnshire.
“This court has said in the past that those who engage in it and are caught will lose their liberty as a punishment for them and a deterrent for others.
“The properties he targeted were derelict. He did entirely the wrong thing after he found himself in financial difficulties. He is now out of debt having sold the cars that were the pride and joy of his life.
“He is a hard working young man who has worked with his father in the family business for a number of years. His father would struggle to keep the business going without him being there.”