'Heartless' bandits clean out deaf school

From: Trinidad & Tobago Express - Port-of-Spain,Trinidad and Tobago - Sept 1, 2007

Twenty hearing impaired students have suffered a major setback due to a break-in at the Deaf Pioneers Life Centre at Woodford Street, Arima, which they were receiving on-the-job training to get work in a number of areas.

Among the items stolen were computers, microwave ovens, sewing machines, a laminating machine, televisions and a projector-together valued at more than $100,000.

Schoolteacher and sign language interpreter Sharon Henry said the theft will be "a big blow" for the students.

"How can people be so heartless. Now we have nothing to assist the students. I hope whoever stole the computers and other equipment will return them," she said yesterday.

She said the subjects taught at the centre were computer literacy, mathematics, English, sewing, home-furnishing and the training of Sign Language Interpreters.

The theft took place two weekends ago. Entry and exit out of the centre were made through a window without burglar proofing at the back of the adjacent Sixth Form College, investigators believe.

Both institutions are located on the third floor of a building near to a construction project currently underway.

The centre was founded in 1995 and served as a community based organisation for nine years. Five years ago it was registered as a Non-Governmental Organisation.

The break-in is being investigated by detective constable Ronan Newton.

© 2007 Trinidad & Tobago Express