No merit badge for thief who stole scout trailer
Binbrook organization raising funds to replace articles but still hopes for return of trailer
A group of Binbrook scouts is hoping to raise nearly $11,000 after their trailer — full of woodworking tools, a propane fire pit and custom-built car track — was stolen in broad daylight.
Scout leader Andrew Bienhaus said the trailer was taken from his driveway on Binbrook Road between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. on March 28.
“They (the scouts) were all a bit shocked,” said Bienhaus, who oversees the 1st Binbrook Scouting Group.
“They couldn’t understand why someone would steal from them. Sadly, it might be one of those life lessons where you learn there are bad people out there. It has been hard on them.”
The trailer, which was lent to the scout group by another volunteer, was used to store the group’s property as well as facilitate camping trips.
In addition to the tools, fire pit and KubKar Rally track, $1,000 worth of merchandise for an upcoming fundraiser was stolen.
Other items include a “handmade, lifesized wooden wolf,” which Bienhaus’ wife had made to serve as a totem for the group.
“It was parked right next to the scout trailer and it’s very well branded,” said Bienhaus.
Hamilton police said the theft was reported as being valued at under $5,000 — Bienhaus says the trailer alone is worth $3,500 to $4,000. In addition to its contents, he says the value of what was taken is more than $11,000.
After reporting the robbery and contacting the owner of the trailer, Bienhaus took to social media to spread the word and ask people to be on the lookout.
At this point, Bienhaus says, it looks “less than optimistic” the group will get its belongings back.
In response, the community has rallied in support and a GoFundMe page has been established to raise money to replace the items. More than $3,400 was raised as of Friday afternoon.
While Bienhaus was initially hesitant to accept donations, he eventually relented when told if he didn’t set up a GoFundMe page, someone in the community would.
“Our policy is if you need something, you work hard for it,” said Bienhaus. “You don’t have your hand out. It’s self-reliance and we try to teach the kids that. But we’re humbly grateful for the help.”
Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so through the GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/help-scoutsreplace-what-was-stolen.
At the end of Bienhaus’ driveway a sign has been set up which reads:
“Please bring back our track and wolf. Some things are not replaceable. Just drop it off, no questions asked.”
“We’re scouts,” said Bienhaus, “so we still have a little faith in humanity.”
Hamilton police are asking anyone with information about the theft to contact Crime Stoppers Hamilton at http://crimestoppershamilton.com