As Canadians prepare to mark Remembrance Day, poppy donation boxes that raise funds for veterans and their loved ones have reportedly been stolen from a string of businesses in downtown Penetanguishene, Ont. The Royal Canadian Legion A.B. Thompson Branch 68 says three to four stores have been targeted in a series of break-ins over the past week, making off with community donations. “We are so disheartened. Our Poppy Campaign is our largest fundraiser we hold,” a branch representative told CTV News. “These contributions represent more than monetary donations. They reflect a community’s gratitude, compassion and commitment to those who have served our country.” Among the businesses targeted were Phil’s Casual Dining and Hock Stars Penetang, both located along Main Street near the downtown core. At Phil’s, owner Theo Karpathios says a suspect reportedly smashed the restaurant’s front glass door with a small rock on Saturday morning before entering the business. Surveillance video shows the suspect spent only about 35 seconds inside, opening a poppy donation box, taking the cash and then quickly leaving. He believes $50 may have been taken, although the exact amount is unclear. Video from a store close by captured the moments leading up to the incident, showing someone repeatedly walking along Main Street before returning with a rock. Karpathios said he spent hours cleaning up the mess, replacing the diner’s shattered glass with wood until repairs could be made. The damage has left him with a hefty bill to pay. “We are trying to help by having a box and now we have a $2,000 bill to replace our glass in the door,” Karpathios said. Another break-in was reported early Sunday at Hock Stars, a buy-and-sell pawn shop just down the street. The business said the suspect went straight for its Legion poppy donation box, allegedly ripping it open and stealing the money inside. After taking the donations, the suspect checked the empty cash register before stealing jewelry from a display case, the business said. “What hurts the most is where they started,” Hock Stars wrote over social media, referring to the stolen poppy donations. The store was forced to temporarily close while staff cleaned up and repaired the damage. As the campaign enters its final days, the Penetanguishene Legion Branch is encouraging everyone to wear their poppies with pride and help ensure this year’s campaign finishes strong. Paulette Gagnon, the branch’s Poppy and Remembrance Chair, is reminding businesses with poppy boxes to stay vigilant by securing them behind counters and keeping them away from windows and entrances after hours. “As we approach Nov. 11, let us ensure that the actions of a few do not overshadow the generosity of many or the sacrifices of those we honour,” the legion said. The Ontario Provincial Police are investigating the incidents and encourage anyone with information to contact them.
