Chorley Burglar Who Stole Gecko from Animal Park and Sold It for £20 Sentenced

CHORLEY — A bizarre burglary at a local animal park in Chorley has concluded with the sentencing of a man who broke into the facility, stole a live gecko, and subsequently sold the exotic reptile for a mere £20.

The break-in occurred at the animal park's specialized reptile enclosure. Staff arrived in the morning to find the security locks damaged and one of their resident geckos missing from its terrarium, prompting fears for the creature's welfare.

Wildlife Theft and Cheap Sale

A police investigation quickly traced the stolen gecko to an address where it had been purchased from the burglar for a fraction of its true value. The buyer, realizing the animal had been stolen, cooperated fully with the police, allowing the gecko to be safely returned to the care of the animal park.

The suspect was subsequently arrested and charged with commercial burglary. In court, details of the break-in were laid out, leading to his conviction and sentencing.

Representatives of the animal park expressed relief at the safe recovery of the gecko, noting that exotic reptiles require highly specific temperatures and care, making the theft extremely dangerous for the animal's survival.