Tool thieves steal £15k from ex-offenders charity
Thieves have stolen thousands of pounds of tools and equipment from a Kingswinford charity that helps ex-offenders get their lives back on track.
Steve Tracey from Good News Recycling said he had been left 'heartbroken' by the raid.
He discovered the building had been targeted by the thieves when he went to open the centre based in Stallings Lane on Monday morning.
The raiders had forced their way inside after cutting a padlock off the main gate and smashing a window at the back of the building.
Power tools, £360 of charity money and two laptops were also taken between 8pm on Sunday and 7am Monday.
The tools and equipment were worth up to £15,000. The charity is linked with Dudley Police's Offender Management Team to give people trying to turn their lives a chance to use their skills to renovate furniture that can then be sold to help vulnerable people in the community.
Mr Tracey, aged 48, who set up the business six years ago, said: "At 8.30pm the night before everything was fine.
"Yet I couldn't believe that when I opened up the following day everything was trashed and all our tools and equipment had gone.
"Myself and my business partner, Luke Thomas, were mortified to see the damage done. We made a list of all the equipment taken so far – and we think we have a total of about £15,000 worth.
"This includes grinders, generators, hedgecutters, lawn mowers, saws and cordless drills. It is absolutely heartbreaking for us – it has meant we have had to cancel community jobs such as house clearances and gardening for the elderly.
"These thieves have just come along and robbed the poor to give to themselves."
Hannah Fitzgerald, spokeswoman for West Midlands Police. said: "Police are investigating a burglary overnight at Good News Recycling, Stallings Lane, Kingswinford. It is believed thieves climbed through a window at the back of the premises and stole power tools, cash and two laptops.
"Anyone with information is asked to call Dudley Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Mr Tracey is now appealing for donations. He added: "We would be so grateful if anyone could donate any electrical equipment, money or just their time to help us continue to help others."
"We work alongside ex-offenders as we believe they can work alongside us and benefit the community."
To donate call Good News Recycling on 01384400596 or 07708830576 or visit their Facebook page.
