Aimee Copeland Van Thief: 'Rethink Your Career Choice,' Says Sheriff's Office

The stolen accessible van and wheelchair belonging to Aimee Copeland have been found, but the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office posted some harsh words on Facebook directed at the perpetrator.

The customized van and backup wheelchair were stolen during the weekend in Atlanta, forcing the Gwinnett native to travel 5 miles in another wheelchair to get to the Shepherd Center, where she is a case management intern.

Copeland, a South Gwinnett graduate, endured several amputations three years ago due to flesh-eating bacteria.

In the Facebook post, the sheriff’s office urged the thief to “rethink your career choice.”

To whomever stole Aimee Copeland’s van:

Thank you for not wrecking, trashing, torching or stripping this vehicle while it was in your custody. As you probably know by now, this van plays a critical role in the life of a courageous woman who has overcome a lot of hardship and it could not easily be replaced. You should know, however, that every vehicle you steal is important to its owner. You may not understand the intricacies of car ownership (since you probably just steal them), but they’re expensive to purchase, maintain and insure. People need their vehicles to go to work so that they can support their families. Maybe you should rethink your career choice and start doing something that you can be proud of. It’s not too late to change your ways and your latest theft is a great reminder of why you should. Just a thought...

Copeland’s story of overcoming her medical obstacles has been one of inspiration since she contracted the bacteria during a zip-line accident in 2012. As a result, Aimee lost her left leg, her right foot, and both hands.

Her determination was reflected in a Facebook post Monday afternoon:

“After all Aimee has been through a car theft won’t stop her from reaching her goals! Three years ago she was recovering at Shepherd Center. Today marks her second week as a case management intern, which will allow her to help others who have faced traumatic injuries. This morning she rolled 5 miles in her wheelchair to get to Shepherd in time for a 7:30 meeting. How’s that for determination?!”

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