An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) was stolen from the Dickson shops on Monday and despite being recovered by Tuesday, irreversible damage had been done to it. 

The StreetBeat program provides public AEDs around Canberra, under the guidance of St John’s Ambulance ACT.

CEO of St John’s ACT, Martin Fisk says: “AEDs are not toys or collector’s items, they are vital life-saving devices designed to help anyone suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.

“Removing or tampering with one puts lives at risk.”

Streetbeat AEDs are GPS tracked, which allowed St John Ambulance ACT and the police find the alleged perpetrator who now faces court.

Donations are being accepted to help fund a new AED for the Dickson shops.