A brazen thief was caught on camera removing a piece of public artwork from a wall in Sutton Coldfield and then boarding a bus with it. The incident occurred on Birmingham Road, near a bus stop between Lloyds Bank and a charity shop, at around 6am on Friday, April 24.
The Theft
The artwork, a painting of a goldfinch by Sian Storey Art, was part of an art trail commissioned by Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID (Business Improvement District). It was installed to brighten up the town centre. The thief used a tool, possibly an electric drill or screwdriver, to carefully remove the fixings. He then placed the heavy painting on the pavement, put on gloves, and carried it away.
Caught on Camera
The crime was filmed by a resident named Gary, who did not provide his surname. He watched as the thief walked past Lloyds Bank and down Birmingham Road towards the town centre, then boarded the 907 bus to Birmingham. Gary immediately reported the incident to the police.
Arrest and Recovery
West Midlands Police responded swiftly. A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft about 10 minutes after the bus departed, and the painting was recovered. The suspect remains in custody for questioning.
Community Reaction
Michelle Baker, manager of Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, expressed shock and disappointment. “We are shocked and appalled that a piece of public art, created for everyone to enjoy, has been brazenly stolen in broad daylight,” she said. She thanked the resident who filmed the theft and contacted police, leading to an arrest. The BID hopes to reinstate the artwork with enhanced security, including anti-vandal fixings. The painting cost over £1,000 to commission, funded by local businesses.
