Heartless theft leaves Whittington man with rare disease housebound

Police are investigating after a Whittington man with a rare disease was left housebound when his mobility scooter was stolen.

A Whittington man with a rare disease has been left housebound after his mobility scooter was stolen.

On Thursday morning, Paul Drought discovered the scooter was gone from his back veranda.

Paul Drought’s mobility scooter was stolen from his Whittington home leaving him unable to get around the neighbourhood. Picture: Mark Wilson

“I just couldn’t believe it was gone … that people would pick on the disabled,” the 64-year-old said.

Mr Drought was diagnosed with polymyositis, a disease that causes muscle degeneration, in 2008.

He cannot drive due to his condition so his mobility scooter was his primary mode of transport.

The disease means he struggles to walk, and needs to use a walker or a wheelchair.

“I need the scooter just to get to the shops and visit people,” Mr Drought said.

“I’ve been housebound since Thursday.”

Geelong police are investigating the theft.

Victoria Police spokeswoman Leading Senior Constable Kendra Jackson said the Quingo scooter was stolen from the back door of a residence sometime between 11.30pm on December 8 and 11.30am on December 9.

Mr Drought said he may turn to fundraising to replace the stolen scooter.

“I don’t know why someone would pinch someone’s scooter when you know damn well they’ll need it for everyday use,” Mr Drought said.

“Just return it.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Originally published as Heartless theft leaves Whittington man with rare disease housebound