Christmas toys for children stolen from Salvation Army shed

Toys earmarked for distribution this Christmas were stolen from a Salvation Army storage shed in Conception Bay South early Monday, the organization says.

Sometime between midnight and 8 a.m., a storage shed containing toys was broken into on the Salvation Army's property.

The organization is still figuring out the total cost of the theft.

Major Lorne Pritchett, corps officer in Conception Bay South, said the toys were a special purchase made in the spring when a major retailer offered a 75 per cent discount on expensive items.

"Traditionally, our toy collection depot in December receives a significant number of toys and gifts for younger children. However, often we find ourselves having to purchase the more expensive gifts for older children and teenagers," Pritchett said in a statement.

"This year, when we were informed of the deep discounts available, we decided to be proactive and make the purchase early. We are deeply disappointed to find that we are now back at square one in this regard."

Pritchett said they normally collect between $12,000 and $15,000 in toys, just for the Conception Bay South area every year.

In addition to this theft, Pritchett said there have been two other break-ins on Salvation Army-owned storage facilities in the past six months.

Pritchett said the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is investigating.