SPCA theft victims' heartbreak

Emily Iles and Hayley Isley had a disappointing end to their day after thieves stole $300 destined for the SPCA. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

Hours spent baking and donating time to the SPCA was gone in a flash after thieves ran off with $300 in donations.

Yesterday was SPCA Cupcake Day and at the City Focus stand, which was manned by Emily Iles and Hayley Isley, around 150 cupcakes were sold during the day.

But when Ms Iles went to get a coffee, thieves distracted Ms Isley.

"They waited until I had my hands full, grabbed the money box and ran off," she said.
"I feel violated. I've volunteered at the SPCA so I know how far $300 would go."

She said there had been a group sitting behind them for a little while, so they had been wary of keeping their money safe, but then they disappeared. Two of them returned as Ms Iles left the stand. After grabbing the money box the pair ran towards the Central Mall and got into a waiting car, she said.

"I'm devastated," Ms Iles said.

"A lot of people made such an effort to make these cupcakes. We've had people putting in $20 and not even taking a cupcake. To have this happen is heartbreaking.

"When I came out of the shop I knew something was wrong and ran down the street. People were on their phones and getting details.

"I feel like we've failed."

It costs around $5 a day for each animal - there are currently around 50 animals at the Rotorua SPCA, and it takes in about 3000 a year.

"It's really sad," said centre manager Eve Johnson."How low do you have to go to steal from a charity?"

Police are investigating.