An investigation has been launched after a man stole a defibrillator from outside a Newcastle building.
Northumbria Police received reports that an offender approached Moorland House in Blakelaw, and damaged a box near the address which contained a defibrillator between 11.30am and 5pm on April 6. The offender then took the item and made off from the area.
The defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest. It plays an essential part in trying to save the life of someone who in that situation.
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An investigation is under way and attempts to locate the defibrillator have been ongoing, but sadly the item has not yet been found or returned. Officers have today (Wednesday) issued images of the item in the hopes that it can be returned safely.
The defibrillator is a yellow colour and may be identifiable from these photos released by Northumbria Police.
A spokesman for Northumbria Police said that they are now appealing to the public for any information which could help them with their investigation into the whereabouts of the defibrillator.
He said: "Officers investigating the theft of a life-saving piece of equipment from outside a Newcastle building are appealing for information. Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the Tell us Something page on our website, quoting reference 039461S/22."