For the Reporter

David Delaune recently had his bike stolen.

When the Auburn Police Officer’s Association (APOA) learned about Delaune’s loss, it decided to help out.

Delaune, 30, has worked for the City of Auburn for more than a year. He graduated from Auburn High School in 2000, volunteers at American Lighting and Nicolet’s Gardens, and works at Camp Barachah.

He also works part-time as a mail courier for the City.

“David has a disability, but he doesn’t let that affect his love of biking, serving the citizens of Auburn and volunteering at the businesses he works with,” according to the APOA in a news release. “David had won first place in the annual Special Olympics at Joint Base Lewis-McChord three times with that bike. This year’s Special Olympics will take place June 1-2, and with the theft of his three-time first-place bike, David was really disappointed.”

So the APOA purchased a new mountain bike for Delaune, complete with a lock. The APOA executive board joined police administration and members from the mayor’s staff to present the bike to Delaune at the Auburn Police Department on Wednesday.

“David was absolutely shocked and thrilled, and assured us that the bike is exactly what he needs to take the gold medal again this year,” the APOA said.

The APOA has been a part of the Special Olympics since 1990, and has been active in the Law Enforcement Torch Run as well as local fundraising to help athletes such as Delaune compete in local and regional competitions.