Stolen Scooter Owned By Man With TBI Found In New Haven Pawn Shop, Thanks To FB Post

EAST HAVEN, CT — Saddened that someone would do this, and, worse, what the loss would mean for her brother, Maria Hartman created a post on the very popular The Good Things About East Haven Facebook page. More than 1,200 people reacted to the story — nearly all incredulous. And though initially just so sad, this story has a very happy ending.

And Maria credits the folks on the Facebook page.

"My brother Tony was at TJ Maxx two nights ago (and) he left his scooter outside with the key in it and somebody stole it. My brother has TBI (traumatic brain injury) and depends on the scooter to get around. My brother is very innocent and he trusts everybody. If someone knows the person or has seen the scooter, can you please contact the police. This is just sad. Thank you."

That post was made Wednesday at around 12:30 p.m. Less than a day later ...

"We got a call from a gentleman stating that he may have my brother's scooter at his pawn shop. The police will follow up. My brother has papers to get the scooter. This is a blessing! Thank you everyone. This forum is amazing!"

According to East Haven police spokesperson Capt. Joseph M. Murgo, the scooter was recovered from the hock shop, where it was pawned for $60.

"We responded to the pawn shop with the victim who took possession of the scooter on scene," Murgo said.

And the cherry on top?

"The pawn shop owner disregarded the $60 and gave the scooter back without seeking payment," Murgo said.

"This person is not getting away with this," Murgo said. "It's still under investigation with a suspect identified."

In a new post Thursday afternoon, Maria wrote: "This site is truly amazing. Because of you all sharing my brother's story, it reached a pawn shop in New Haven where the scooter was located. My brother got his scooter back today and is already driving it. I appreciate all the comments and shares and the kindness you show my brother."

It's all about the good things.