Man to face trial over attempted ATM theft

Police were alerted when a patrol car came across road closed signs on the A272 Bolney Road near Ansty just before 1am on Saturday (November 28). At the same time a call was received reporting a theft taking place at Ansty Garage. Officers were on scene within a minute and blocked a Mitsubishi vehicle, which was driven at the police car, causing damage.

Four men ran from the vehicle, one being located laying in a nearby field a short time later. Three other suspects are still outstanding. No cash was removed from the ATM, but it was irrevocably damaged and will cost £14,000 to replace, police said.

Morgan Paine, 26, unemployed, of no fixed address, but known to frequent the Haywards Heath and Crawley areas, was subsequently charged with attempted theft. He appeared at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Monday (November 30) and was remanded in custody to be sent for trial at Lewes Crown Court on January 5.

Inspector Paul Wood said: “We are still looking for three men in connection with the Ansty incident and we are not discounting the possibility that they may be linked to other similar offences in the area in recent weeks. They are adopting the tactic of wearing hi-vis clothing and using signs to give the appearance of bona fide workmen and we would like to hear from anyone who may be suspicious about any activity of this nature that they have witnessed or that they see.”

Anyone with information is asked to email [email protected] or call 101 quoting Operation Cycle. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 (www.crimestoppers-uk.org). If you suspect a crime is taking place now, dial 999 immediately.