A 61-YEAR-OLD MAN HAS appeared at Elgin Sheriff Court in connection with an alleged theft by housebreaking at a commercial premises in the Findhorn area.

A low sum was reported missing after the incident on Friday, February 24 which sparked a public appeal and warning for homes and business to be on their guard.

That led to the arrest of Graham McAusland, 61, who appeared in court yesterday and admitted breaking into the Phoenix Cafe, taking £3.52 and a chocolate bar. He will return to court on March 30 for sentencing following background reports.

In addition a 30-year-old man was charged in connection with a housebreaking in the New Elgin area on February 2, when a number of items were reported missing including electrical equipment, this was also included in a public appeal.

Detective Sergeant Sam Buchan, from CID Proactive Unit, said: “Thank you to the members of the public who assisted with these inquiries.

“North East Division is committed to tackling acquisitive time and a huge amount of work is carried out on a daily basis to prevent it from happening in the first place and, when the worst does happen, identify those responsible.

“I would appeal to anyone with information about acquisitive crime in their area to contact Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if you would prefer to remain anonymous. I would also urge the public to continue to assist us by ensuring their businesses, homes, sheds, garages and vehicles are locked and secure at all times.”