News

Stoughton PD helps replace teen's stolen bike

STOUGHTON, Mass. — Fifteen-year-old Gianni Labianca goes everywhere on his bike, especially to his favorite place - the Stoughton YMCA.

"That's where I can just be myself, relax, play ball, work out and not have to worry about anything that myself,” said Gianna.

Nearly three weeks ago, Gianni parked his bike in the lobby of the Y and in the middle of a workout, it was stolen.

"I look into the lobby and my bike is not there,” he said.

Gianni was crushed and numb at the same time. It was the sixth bike that’s been swiped - and this time from the place he loves. He filed a police report, but based on experience, wasn’t hopeful. The investigation has, so far, has turned up nothing, but the Stoughton police officers decided to take the matter into their own hands.

"We take it seriously and we work to try and find the bike and hold those responsible that may have taken it, but this was the next best thing,” said Interim Police Chief Donna McNamara.

About two dozen officers pooled together $320 to buy Gianni a Target gift card in order to pick out a new bike.

"It's a blessing because I have had a lot of things taken from me in life and I've never really gotten anything back,” he said.

The officer who spearheaded the fundraising wants no recognition, but Gianni is beyond thankful for his generosity.

"I can't say enough to him for what he's done,” the teen said.

Meantime, the investigation into the missing bike continues.