Thief steals autism awareness donation jar from Concord diner

CONCORD, Calif. (KGO) -- A thief was caught on camera taking money from a program to help kids with autism. Concord police needs your help in identifying him.

The thief walked right into Diggers Diner and headed directly to the donation jar on the counter. He casually snatches it up and runs out the door.

"We empty them every few days. So hopefully the guy didn't get too much, but the fact that he would come in and take that is just sad," diner owner Diann Lei said.

Lei said they've been raising money for autism awareness all last month. This money would have been one of the final batches of customer donations.

Concord police say they're hoping someone recognizes the guy - he could be facing serious charges.

"In California, if you're entering a building or structure with intent to commit theft, grand theft or any other felony, it becomes a burglary. So a simple theft like that could actually become a burglary," Concord Police Cpl. Chris Blakely said.

Since the bandit struck last week, word got out and people have been opening their wallets and purses to make up for what was stolen.

There was also a last minute rush to buy up all of their custom silkscreened shirts.

"I would say, by the time we're done, we should probably be able to donate about $600 or $700 dollars," Lei said.

This donation jar robbery could have ruined their fund drive.

Lei hopes someone recognizes the robber and tips off police. But his dastardly deed may end up helping them raise more money.

"He may have done a bad thing but God's working it out for a good thing. So hopefully we'll have even more than before," she said.