Community replaces stolen wheelchair for 4-year-old girl with Down syndrome

CORONA, Calif. (KABC) -- Corona police officers delivered a special Christmas gift Monday to a 4-year-old girl with Down syndrome who had her wheelchair stolen.

With the help of the San Diego Down Syndrome Society, officers were able to replace the specialized wheelchair stolen last week from her front porch. The original chair cost about $2,500.

"This device, it makes sure that the user is restrained, kept safe in the wheel chair. It's also very adjustable, so that as they grow, it can grow with them," said Kaelan Rios with the San Diego Down Syndrome Society.

Coincidentally, the stolen wheelchair was also recovered Monday, but no suspect has been identified, police said.

Jocelyn Flores has Down syndrome and is unable to walk. She needs the wheelchair to get around the house and go to pre-school.

Corona police said when the theft was first reported they were flooded with calls from the community wanting to help.

"We were just amazed, and it just reminds us of what a great community we live in and we serve," Corona Police Officer Jesse Cervantes said.