The ignition compartment of a Ford Transit van was damaged between September 18 and last Thursday while it was parked in the Royal Oak car park in Sparth Road, Clayton-le-Moors.
Police would like to speak to a slim white male who spoke with a strong Irish accent.
He was wearing a dark blue jacket, blue jeans and is 6ft tall.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45.
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