BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — For those who are disabled, a wheelchair ramp can make all the difference when it comes to convenience. But for an east Bakersfield boy, that difference has been stolen.
Jonathan Albiar, 12, and his parents said the thief has stolen more than just property; they’ve stolen compassion.
Albiar doesn’t let his inability to use his legs keep him from being a normal kid.
He was born paralyzed by a rare disease called Caudal Regression Syndrome.
“I try really hard (getting into my house) without the ramp,” Albiar said. “I kind of struggle, it’s kind of hard.”
It was also hard for Albiar’s dad, Santiago Duarte, when he discovered the metal ramp missing May 20 from their front porch as he left for work.
Duarte said, “Somebody decided to borrow the ramp. It had to be more than one person carrying it because it’s 10 feet long and 5 feet wide. I could barely carry it.”
Albiar said, “I was just sitting there like where the heck did it go? I was like OK, somebody stole it, so I felt kind of sad, because that’s the only thing I could use.”
The family can’t believe someone would steal from a disabled person, especially a child.
“It’s really kind of disappointing because what’s next you know?” said Duarte.
Anyone with information on Albiar’s ramp is urged to call the Bakersfield Police Department.
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