Outrage as Burglars Smash Into Eastbourne Cats Protection Charity Shop

Local charity volunteers and residents have expressed deep shock and anger after a local charity shop in Eastbourne was targeted by burglars who smashed their way in to steal charity donations.

The incident occurred at the Cats Protection charity shop, situated on Seaside in Eastbourne. According to reports, the break-in happened just before midnight on Friday, March 15, 2024.

Bricks Used to Smash Entry

The perpetrators utilized bricks to smash the glass front door of the shop. Once inside, they targeted the till, breaking it open, and stole cash from a donation collection tin intended to support animal welfare efforts in the area.

A nearby resident heard the disturbance and immediately alerted the Sussex Police. However, the suspects managed to flee the scene prior to the officers' arrival.

Community Response

Shop managers and volunteers described the incident as "heart-breaking" and labeled the thieves as "mindless criminals." The damage caused to the shopfront and the loss of charity funds has impacted the vital rescue and rehoming work carried out by Cats Protection in East Sussex.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage from the Seaside area around the time of the incident to come forward to assist with their investigations.