Acadia Sheriff’s Deputies are searching for the person who stole an air conditioner from an American Legion Hall.
That theft happened at American Legion 225 on the Lawtell highway in Church Point. Commander Frank Richard discovered the missing AC on Monday. Richard says he goes to the post almost every day but this week was different.
Frank Richard discovered the AC unit was missing.
“I came back here to have the breaker box changed. When I got here I looked and I said ‘I was in shock and disbelief’ because you just don’t expect something like this. An empty spot where you had a 4 ton AC unit.” Richard said.
The commander and other members are in disbelief.
“Well, then I told the electrician, no need for electric work. We don’t have a unit to run,” Richard said.
Replacing the AC unit could be pricey but Richard fears that is not the only damage.
“The inside unit has been compromised because moisture getting into the system. We have to see if it’s still good enough to be in operation and if not we’ll have to change that also,” Richard explained.
Currently, their only source of income is Bingo on Wednesday evenings and hall rentals.
“We have rentals and bingo which gives us a few dollars, but something like this would pretty much deplete our funds,” Richard said.
Although the theft can be costly, Richard says the help they need from the public is contacting Acadia Parish Crime Stoppers if any information is known about the case.
“You never think it would happen. Especially from a veteran organization. We sign a piece of paper to defend and protect your rights and freedoms, not come take our unit. It’s kind of disheartening. ” Richard added.
A gofundme has been set up for the American Legion. You can donate here
