Video shows motorcycle stolen from charity event, driven through New Hampshire bar
HAMPTON, N.H. - A motorcycle that was being raffled off for charity was stolen and driven through the Hampton, New Hampshire bar where the event was held. It was all recorded on surveillance video.
"The bike was stolen off the patio in broad daylight," L Street Tavern owner Terry Diadone told WBZ.
Raffle for custom-made Harley-Davidson
This was no ordinary motorcycle. This was a custom-made Harley-Davidson that had been parked on the tavern's patio for several weeks. The motorcycle was raffled off to help raise $23,000 for a Salisbury family battling Alzheimer's. The Harley was donated by a bike collector in South Carolina who knew the family and wanted to make difference. Then, on Memorial Day, the day of the raffle, the unthinkable happened.
"We never sincerely thought that anybody would touch the bike, much less steal the bike," Diadone said.
Theft caught on camera
Police later identified the thief seen on surveillance video as 26-year-old Brian Bennett of Amesbury, Massachusetts.
"He had one of our guys who thought he was the winner move stuff out of the way and then he just took off down the patio," Diadone told WBZ.
Surveillance also caught him driving it right out the front door of the tavern. That's when L Street's owners quickly called police.
"The Seabrook Police Department spotted the vehicle - spotted the motorcycle - they activated their lights in an attempt to stop the motorcycle. He took off at high rate of speed. They chose not to pursue," said Hampton Police Chief Alex Reno.
Accused thief caught
Bennett was eventually stopped and arrested in Wrentham, Massachusetts after running out of gas. He now faces several charges.
Ian Timmons is a firefighter and veteran. He won the raffle but has yet to collect his prize. Police said the Harley will be delivered to him soon.
"Initially, you know, I was mad that the guy stole it from a veteran on his anniversary, on Memorial Day, but then I found out he might have mental illness, so I just want to make sure he gets the right help," Timmons told WBZ.
"I am glad that it came to a peaceful resolution. We were able to get the property back, and person who did will be held accountable for their actions," Reno said.
The Salisbury family has received the money raised by the raffle.