Van full of Christmas toys stolen in New Mexico

FARMINGTON, NM (AP) — Time is running out for the Salvation Army in New Mexico after the Grinch put a stop to the group's Christmas toy program.

A van loaded with $6,000 worth of toys to be distributed to hundreds of children was stolen from the parking lot of a Farmington store this week.

“This is a pretty Grinch-like action,” Farmington police spokeswoman Nicole Brown told the Farmington Daily Times.

Brown said a detective conducted interviews after the theft on Tuesday and the investigation is ongoing.

Farmington Police asked the public via Facebook for help in locating the white minivan.

“Shock, disbelief that someone could do something like that – especially in a marked vehicle carrying gifts for children,” Lt. Christopher Rockwell of the Salvation Army's Farmington Corps told KOB-TV.

The toys, intended for more than 350 children, were scheduled to be distributed on Dec. 20. Now, they hope to replace the stolen toys before Monday. Rockwell said the community has already responded generously, donating more toys and money.

“The community response and commitment is just heartwarming because people here in Farmington and the Four Corners region are so generous and giving,” he said.

The Salvation Army operates in 25 branches in New Mexico and offers, among other things, religious services, food for the hungry, and shelter and clothing for the homeless.