Fears Worthing school burglary could be inside job (From The Argus)
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Fears Worthing school burglary could be inside job
9:30am Sunday 17th March 2013 in News By Anna Roberts, Crime reporter
A primary school has been burgled twice in just a few days – and staff think it could be an inside job.
Chesswood Middle School in Worthing was most recently targeted between Monday (March 11) and Wednesday (March 13), as heavy snow struck Sussex.
Nine iPads, believed to be worth about £500 each, and a number of Canon cameras were taken.
On March 4 and March 5 it was also raided. Equipment was also taken on this occasion, believed to be two iPads.
In a letter to parents, headteacher Andrew Jolley said: “It seems clear that they are associated in some way with the school and therefore we would urge anyone in the school community, with any information of the whereabouts of this equipment and/or the thieves, to please let the school or police know in confidence.
“Resources are being taken that cannot be replaced. They are a very valuable learning tool and this will therefore have an impact on all children in school – if you know anything please ensure that you act to protect your child’s learning.”
‘Children who suffer’
He told The Argus: “I’d liken it to stealing from a church. Children have been putting signs up on the school windows saying ‘Don’t steal from us’.”
Deputy headteacher Ian Smith said: “We are very disappointed.
“It is the children who suffer. Like everybody, money is tight and these were bought out of our budget. They will be difficult to replace.”
Parents condemned the thieves, describing them as “scum”.
One mother said: “Nice to know spiteful yobs sink so low these days to make some money.
'Stealing from children'
“How are children going to learn? Idiots must be so proud of themselves for stealing things.”
Another mother added: “The children are lucky to have this equipment.
“We are now educating our children in a world of technology which is a good thing.
“Pity these scumbags are preventing this and stealing from children.”
A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: “We would like to hear from anyone who may have been offered an iPad for sale recently.”
Call 101 quoting serial 229 of 5/3.
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rolivan says...
11:17am Sun 17 Mar 13