Palisade Gardens Retirement Community has always been a peaceful place for seniors enjoying their retirement years.
But on Sunday, April 28, 2024 shortly after midnight two suspects decided to steal a bench that is regularly used by residents outside the front entrance.
The theft was noticed immediately when staff came in to work.
Images of the suspects have been posted which has resulted in a flurry of information coming forward said General Manager, Micki McLean.
“The seat is used daily for people waiting for buses, waiting for visitors, waiting to go out for lunch – so it’s pretty important to us.”
With video security just a few metres from where the bench was, it shows the two culprits walking eastbound on Chapel Street, then moments later one of the suspects comes up and grabs the bench, hoisting it over his shoulder. Shortly after, the other suspect comes into frame to pick up the two seat cushions.
McLean said the retirement residence has a very good security system on all the doors showing the theft.
“It’s very disappointing. I’ve been here since the building opened 16-years ago. We’ve never had this kind of incident before.”
“It was very brazen and stupid.”
On the retirement homes social media page images of the theft have been shared over 360 times with numerous comments.
“It’s sad to witness society coming to this…stealing from elderly.”
“So many sit on the bench and and wait or just take in some fresh air, despicable.”
“People are horrible”
McLean said Palisade Gardens very much appreciates the outpouring from the community.
The incident was reported to police.
With the video, the two suspects may want to turn themselves in to Cobourg Police.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
