The current economic situation is driving new forms of acquisitive crime. Several DACs (Diocesan Advisory Committees for the Care of Churches) have now shared theft of precious metals from churches and theft of metal objects that are not precious but easily removed.
There is guidance on security and crime prevention on ChurchCare. Following good practice will slow down theft and make the church a less desirable target.
Catherine Copp, DAC Secretary for the Diocese of York, says, "Our colleagues in other dioceses have said that the thieves seem to be targeting rural churches, breaking into the buildings by smashing locks or windows, and drilling open the safes. One church had CCTV, but the thieves found the recorder, smashed it open and stole the hard drive. We would urge any churches to report the crime as a heritage crime and not to engage personally if they see anything suspicious."