North Phoenix horse therapy riding center burglarized

PHOENIX - A therapeutic riding center dedicated to helping disabled children is out thousands of dollars after a burglary.

Thieves broke into a back door window at the Horses Help Therapeutic Riding Center near Cave Creek Road and Rose Garden Lane in North Phoenix.

"This is ridiculous," said Greg Goodman, the executive director of the center. "It is senseless."

The thieves kicked down an office door and stole cash and several items, like a signed guitar from Alice Cooper, that were to be part of an upcoming fundraiser auction.

In all Goodman says they are likely going to be out $2,500.

"That is a scholarship for a kid who can't afford the program," he said.

The center works with kids with both mental and physical challenges. The horse therapy is something that Goodman said is unique and has been life-changing for many of the families participating.

"I have parents come to me in tears because their kid hugged them for the first time or said 'I love you,'" he said.

Goodman said there are no suspects and likely no witnesses because the thieves entered from the back where it was harder to be seen.