Thief steals boy's Christmas

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

Jackie Hooper and son Brandon are being helped, after a Grinch stole their Christmas

A Penticton single mother and her 13-year-old son are still in shock, after a thief stole food and gifts, just days before Christmas.

The theft took place Monday morning from the home of Jackie Hooper on Atkinson Street.

"It was like our whole Christmas was stolen," she said Tuesday. "And I wasn't worried so much for me, more for him."

Hooper said the day began on a happy note when her son Brandon, who has VACTERL Syndrome and recently underwent spinal surgeries in Vancouver, received a Christmas card with some money in it. 

The pair decided to go shopping to buy something for a friend at the Cherry Lane Shopping Centre.

Brandon, who was in a wheelchair, grew tired and the two returned home. When they arrived, Hooper sensed something was wrong when she tried to open the door and the chain was across it.

"I took Brandon to the neighbour's house and went around the back," she said. "I saw the laundry room window and back door were open, so I immediately called the police."

Among the items taken by the unknown Grinch were two laptops, a TV, Brandon's Christmas gifts and their food hamper, including a turkey from St Vincent De Paul.

The police did an investigation, and to the best of Hooper's knowledge the thief has not been apprehended.

But not all was lost as the theft was posted on social media in Penticton and people began responding to the family's plight.

On Tuesday morning, donations started pouring in from friends, staff at Brandon's school and others in the community.

"I'm overwhelmed," said Hooper. "I would never have thought so many people would help. There's so much stuff, even a poinsettia and Christmas bread, which I've never had before."

Brandon who is a goalie for the Upper Deck Vees, a Penticton special needs hockey team, was also looking forward to getting New York Rangers stuff.

"I was angry when this happened, but this is great," he said, giving a thumbs-up.

The theft is still under investigation.

Penticton RCMP Sgt. Rick Dellebuur said this time of year provides a bounty for thieves as most homes will have extra gifts, food and liquor.

"Break-ins and thefts this time of year can certainly take some of the merriment out of the victim's Christmas," he said. "People need to be vigilant in ensuring that their homes are secure and look like someone might be home when they are away. Leaving lights on, or controlled by timers, and a radio on gives your home the look that someone is home and thus it is less likely to be a target of thieves."

He further recommends having snow shovelled and the mail picked to give the appearance someone is home, and to be careful who you tell or who might be listening when you discuss what you have purchased or are planning for Christmas. 

Friends of Hooper said people who still want to donate, can do so at the Smart Shopper on Main Street in the city.