Christmas tree theft in Lichtenfels: Who can help?

Christmas tree theft in Lichtenfels: Who can help?

During the contemplative time around Christmas, an unpleasant incident recently occurred in Lichtenfels. It was reported to the local police that a Christmas tree that was actually placed in front of the municipal building yard was stolen. The theft occurred on the night of December 23rd to 24th, 2025. The law enforcement officers suspect that the perpetrator was unable to obtain his own tree and simply helped himself to the specimen that had been set up. The Lichtenfels police station has asked the public for help. Anyone who can provide information about the incident should call 09571/9520-0, as every tip could be crucial.

But the theft of Christmas trees is not only an issue in Lichtenfels. In the Eifel, 40 trees were stolen from a plot between Nimsreuland and Gesotz. These had already been felled and neatly packed in nets, ready for delivery. The perpetrators appear to have specifically selected trees of a certain size and could have transported them using agricultural equipment. According to the police, the damage was estimated at around 1,200 euros. The thieves attempted it at least between November 29th and December 3rd. Here too, information is requested, especially from witnesses who observed anything unusual during this period. SWR reports on an increasing trend in Christmas tree thefts that extends throughout Germany.

A nationwide phenomenon

Theft of Christmas trees is no longer just a local problem, but affects many places in Germany. Experts from the industry association VNWB have found that the number of stolen trees has actually skyrocketed. In some cases, up to 100 trees are stolen from tree crops or during sales at temporary stands. The perpetrators often operate in professional gangs that have the entire country in their focus World reported.

The thieves' main targets are stalls, public places, Christmas markets and facilities such as retirement homes, schools and daycare centers. It also appears that prices for Nordmann firs have increased this year, making the trees even more desirable. For one meter of Nordmann fir, buyers currently have to pay between 21 and 29 euros - an increase of one euro compared to the previous year. Blue spruce and Norway spruce prices have also increased.

A serious offense

According to current reporting, the theft of Christmas trees is not a trivial offense. The police take such incidents seriously, especially since the penalties can be significant depending on the value of the stolen trees. If the value is less than 50 euros, it is a “theft of low value”. In more serious cases, there are penalties of up to 100,000 euros or even imprisonment. During this festive period, one should not only celebrate but also take care of one's own neighborhood to prevent such cheeky acts from increasing in the future.