William Jones has to use a borrowed voice box to speak since his was stolen. (June 19, 2012/FOX Carolina)UNION, SC (FOX Carolina) -
An elderly South Carolina man is voiceless after he said thieves stole the only device that helps him talk.
William Jones, 81, had throat cancer five or six years ago, and now has a hole where his larynx used to be. He used an electronic device to help him speak until it went missing.
Jones said he hadn't seen that device for almost a week. He searched around, but decided it was not just misplaced. Monday, he went to the Union Police Department to report it stolen.
Jones said nothing else was missing from his home but his electro larynx. The device that helps him speak, is his lifeline. He said he borrowed one for the interim, but needs his own, and has no idea where it could be.
Police said the device lists at about $500.
"I don't see how it would benefit anyone to steal it unless you have that type of medical condition," said Union Police Chief Sam White.
White said his officers have not seen this type of robbery before, but they're investigating it like every other by interviewing neighbors and hoping that community members can lead them with tips.
A FOX Carolina viewer called after Jones' story aired Tuesday night and said they would be willing to buy him a new device.
If you have any information on the theft or find Jones' voice box, call Union police or CrimeStoppers at 864-429-0800.
Copyright 2012 FOX Carolina (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
