Appeal after life-saving defibrillator stolen from Ilfracombe high street
Vital life-saving defibrillator stolen from The Arches area of Ilfracombe High Street, with police urging anyone who knows anything to come forward
A defibrillator placed in the centre of Ilfracombe High Street to save lives has been stolen.
Police have appealed for any witnesses or anyone with any information about the callous theft to come forward.
The life-saving device was removed from its cabinet on an outside wall at The Arches sometime before Thursday, October 15.
Defibrillators deliver a controlled electric shock to the heart when someone is undergoing a cardiac arrest and public access ones such as this have saved many lives, providing instant audio instructions so anyone can use them.
Devon & Cornwall Police said the machine stolen in Ilfracombe is valued at £1,500 and is grey in colour, kept within a grey and orange case.
They are appealing for witnesses and would like to hear from anyone who may have information about the incident.
Sergeant Rob Brown said: “At this stage there is no indication that the device was used in a medical emergency.
“The loss of this vital piece of life-saving equipment is a significant concern as its absence could have serious consequences should a member of the public suffer a medical emergency and need immediate treatment.
“Enquiries are ongoing and CCTV footage from the area is currently being reviewed to establish the circumstances surrounding its removal.
“We would urge anyone who may have information about the whereabouts of the defibrillator or anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area over the past week to come forward.”
If you have any information, please contact police via the force website at https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk or by phone on 101, quoting crime reference 50260277122.
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers via 0800 555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org