Thief Steals Woman’s Electric Wheelchair in NYC – Caught on Camera
In a heartless act that left a 70-year-old Brooklyn woman without her much-needed mobility scooter, a thief was caught on camera stealing her electric wheelchair in New York City. The victim, Rosalyn Johnson, found herself in a difficult situation when the theft occurred while she was shopping in a deli on Troy Avenue and Sterling Place.
NYPD Comes to the Rescue
The NYPD officers went above and beyond to show their support for Rosalyn Johnson by presenting her with a replacement wheelchair as they continue to search for the culprit. The moment the officers handed her the new chair at her Crown Heights home, Johnson couldn’t help but express her gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Jesus. This changed my life.”
Having been in a wheelchair since suffering a stroke in 2011, Johnson relied heavily on her stolen mobility scooter for independence and mobility. The theft was a devastating blow to her daily life, but the kindness and generosity of the NYPD brought a glimmer of hope back into her life.
The Theft and Aftermath
The incident occurred on September 1, when a woman with a cigarette in her mouth brazenly stole the $1,500 electric wheelchair while Johnson was inside the deli. Johnson only realized her wheelchair was missing after leaving the store, leaving her shocked and distressed by the callous act.
Describing the thief as a “crackhead,” Johnson expressed her frustration with the situation but surprisingly showed empathy towards the perpetrator. Despite the hardship caused by the theft, Johnson chose to forgive the person responsible, acknowledging the struggles of addiction that may have led to the crime.
The accused thief was captured on camera joyriding in the stolen wheelchair outside a bodega in Crown Heights. The footage released by the NYPD showed the thief casually riding on the sidewalk with a cigarette dangling from her lips before fleeing the scene westbound on Sterling Place.
A Community Response
The theft of Rosalyn Johnson’s electric wheelchair sparked outrage and sympathy within the community, with many rallying behind her to offer support and assistance. The NYPD’s swift action in providing her with a new wheelchair demonstrated the power of solidarity and compassion in times of need.
While the search for the thief continues, Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry assured Johnson that justice would be served. With the support of the NYC Police Foundation, the NYPD purchased the replacement wheelchair for Johnson, reaffirming their commitment to serving and protecting the community.
Daughtry’s promise to apprehend the thief and bring her to justice reflects the dedication of law enforcement to uphold the safety and well-being of all individuals, especially vulnerable members like Rosalyn Johnson. The act of theft may have caused temporary distress, but the resilience and unity shown in response to the incident highlight the strength of community bonds in times of adversity.
