Channel 2 Action News obtained photos of Christmas gifts ripped open during a burglary at a home in southwest Atlanta.
The break-in happened at a home on Lanier Drive Wednesday morning.
Atlanta Police Officer Mason Mercure said a fellow officer sent the photos to him after thieves stole iPads and toys for kids who live at the home. The thieves also beat one of the family's dogs, police said.
“These are middle-class working people who were victimized because they were at work doing what they're supposed to do,” he said.
Mercure, a dad and dog owner himself, was so upset, he posted on Facebook about the break-in. He asked his own friends to help.
Earl West, one of the residents at the home, showed Channel 2’s Amy Napier Viteri where thieves kicked in his door. He doesn't know what to make of someone who would open and take gifts for his 4, 5 and 6-year-old grandkids.
“They did steal Christmas, but they didn't steal the joy,” said West.
Also missing are TVs, jewelry and guns he kept in the home. One of West's dogs is hurt where he says thieves hit her with a chair. Still, he says the biggest surprise is the kindness from an officer he's never met.
“For officers taking a lot of heat right now, it makes you think. You're giving us compassion,” said West.
Mercure, a former Marine, said he's been overwhelmed by the response from other Marines and officers. He said others can relate to this family and he wants to help give Christmas back.
“It’s really easy to put yourself in these people’s shoes and empathize with them and understand what they're going through,” said Mecure said.
Mercure said in just a day, he's received around a $1,000 dollars’ worth of donations.
Police are investigating the burglary and would like to hear from anyone with information about the crime.
