Equipment stolen from Greater Victoria team with developmental disabilities

Thieves have interrupted play for a Greater Victoria hockey team that supports players of all ages with developmental disabilities. According to West Shore RCMP, a large amount of hockey equipment belonging to the South Island Ravens was stolen from a storage room at the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre, located at 1767 Island Hwy. in Colwood. The theft took place between Sept. 28 and Oct. 19. With an estimated total value of approximately $3,500, the stolen items include 10 pairs of ice skates, 10 team jackets displaying the Ravens’ logo, two sets of goalie gear and two pairs of goalie skates. “This theft is heartbreaking for our players and families,” said the team’s general manager and co-founder Gus Ascroft. “Our program is built on community support and inclusion – losing this gear affects our ability to get players on the ice.” The South Island Ravens welcome any donations or equipment to help the team get back on the ice as soon as possible, notes a West Shore RCMP news release. Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact the West Shore RCMP by calling 250-474-2264 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.