DNA Test Led To Arrest Of Copper Pipe Thief

DNA tests carried out on blood left at a crime scene led to the arrest of teenage thief Tony Adams. Adams had lost the blood when stole �500-worth of copper piping from a Littleport home undergoing renovation work by Sanctuary Hereward housing association

DNA tests carried out on blood left at a crime scene led to the arrest of teenage thief Tony Adams.

Adams had lost the blood when stole �500-worth of copper piping from a Littleport home undergoing renovation work by Sanctuary Hereward housing association, magistrates were told.

The 18-year-old had gone into the property at Friars Place with the previous occupant, prosecutor Angela Sassoli explained at Ely courthouse.

A window had been damaged when entry was gained to the home, and blood was found at the rear of the bathroom sink.

Adams, of Upton Place, Littleport, admitted theft. He told police that the previous occupant had let him in to the property through the front door, having climbed through a window himself, to collect mail.

"He realised there was no furniture inside, he went into the bathroom and saw a sink on the floor, he decided to steal the copper piper, and cut his finger," said Mrs Sassoli. "He also admitted taking copper piping from the kitchen, intending to sell it."

Mitigating, Jim Dignan said Adams did not enter the house as a trespasser.

"It was old copper piping," he said. "There was some on the floor, and some hanging from the wall.

"On leaving the premises it was decided not to scrap it, the piping was left in the front garden. It was a stupid thing to do, and there was no gain by my client."

Adams was ordered to carry out 60 hours of unpaid work and pay �50 compensation.