Suspect wanted for stealing Salvation Army Kettle in Clovis

CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Christmas crook has targeted the Salvation Army in Clovis not once but twice this holiday season.

The most recent crime was reported Monday at the Walmart on Herndon near Clovis avenues.

Police shared surveillance images of the suspect in an orange hooded sweatshirt.

"He came right in that sweet, like quiet spot, didn't go anywhere else. Stood right in front of it with an open backpack and like scooped it up from behind, and knew where all the weak spots were to take it even though it was locked with a pad lock and everything," said Salvation Army Captain Kailah Kim.

Captain Kailah Kim says he didn't strike once, but twice -- coming back to get the stand with an apron and bell.

"So that he can go out and pretend to be a bell ringer, and that makes me slightly uncomfortable and concerning because this is a trust between the community and the salvation army," said Kim.

Police say the first theft happened December 13th and the other on the 22nd.

"We don't want people to think this is acceptable," said Corporal Dan Wilson with the Clovis Police Department.

Corporal Wilson adding as they continue to search for the thief, stay vigilant.

"The holiday season, typically theft and crime will increase a little bit, and we definitely want the public to understand if they see something, they need to say something, they need to report these crimes," said Corporal Wilson.

Kim says while they only collect funds during this time of year, it goes toward year-round programs and hard times -- so families don't have to choose between Christmas gifts and paying their bills.

"More than anything the 200 dollars which breaks my heart because each dollar counts for -- especially during the inflation time, every dollar is stretched real thin with everybody right now," said Kim.

Adding their goal is to offer loved one's relief and hope, something this Christmas grinch is impacting.

"That's the reason why its even more devastating that this has happened because we know how much it took for the community to make that donation," said Kim.

The Clovis Salvation Army is still down $8,000 for their kettle campaign this year.

If you would like to donate, click here.

Clovis police are asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect, if you know anything, you are asked to contact valley crime stoppers.

If you would like to donate to the Salvation Army, click here.

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