iPad stolen from boy with Autism in Warwick

By Brittany Comak 

Twitter: @BComakABC6

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) – The family of a young boy with special needs is wondering why someone would steal an iPad – right out of his hands.

Now the community is coming together to raise money for a new one.

Will, 11, has Autism and Prader-Willi Syndrome.

Because of his cognitive delays, he uses an iPad to communicate with his family and to navigate his world.

In addition to communication, the iPad also had all of his schedules, reminders for medications, and music that calmed him.

“He’s incredibly talented,” said family friend Heather Callanan. “And he’s the sweetest soul. He didn’t deserve this.”

Will and his family were at a yard sale in Warwick Sunday when they say a group of people targeted Will, and ended up walking off with his iPad, effectively stealing his voice.

They called the police but no one saw what happened.

“He knows that ‘the man has the iPad.’ I’m not sure he grasps that the iPad isn’t coming back.”

Will’s family had been at the yard sale selling some of their things thinking they could use the extra money to go for a family weekend away, but were left worrying about paying for a new iPad.

“He struggled to tell mom what he wanted for breakfast this morning,” explained Callanan. “It’s not a luxury for him. This isn’t a toy. This is a necessity.”

 A go-fund-me has already raised $1000, making the purchase of a new iPad more than possible.

Callanan, who started the go–fund–me, Is hoping the family can use the extra money on more educational apps for Will and their family trip.

“The power of love and community can outweigh the bad,” said Callanan.

Warwick police confirmed they are investigating what happened.

The family says they are grateful for the outpouring of support they’ve received, and that they hope to have a new iPad for Will by Tuesday.

©WLNE-TV / ABC6 2019