Stolen chalices found in bushes (From Watford Observer)

Stolen chalices from Holy Rood Church found in bushes

9:30am Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News By Adam Binnie, Senior Reporter

A set of silver chalices stolen from a church have been found underneath some bushes at the end of an alleyway.

The four silver ceremonial cups were stolen from the altar of Holy Rood Church on Saturday, January 26.

A 40-year-old man was arrested and charged with theft. He pleaded guilty on January 31, at Watford Magistrates Court, and was sentenced to 28 days in prison.

During his time in custody, officers gained his trust and upon his release on March 4, he took them to an area in Watford town centre where he had hidden the items.

Detective sergeant Jo Goodson from the Local Crime Unit in Watford said: "At first he was reluctant to communicate with police about the crime, but through perseverance, we were able to persuade the man to show us where he had concealed the chalices, which was under some bushes at the dead end of an alley way in the town centre.

"The priest was overwhelmed when we handed them back to him. In all my years of policing it was a very memorable moment.

"They were very sacred to the church, having been engraved in remembrance of people who had passed away."

Father McAleenan, the parish priest at Holy Rood Church said: "We wish to record our thanks to the police officers of Watford who successfully investigated the theft and assisted us assiduously."