Burglars Target Blind Vendors Machines In Bakersfield CA

BAKERSFIELD, CA -- Vending machines operated by blind vendor Willie Shoemaker are being burglarized here. Bakersfield's 23ABC News reported that surveillance cameras captured burglars breaking into his vending machines located at public rest stops.

Shoemaker, a Randolph-Sheppard vending operator, said the thieves have only gotten away with few dollars, but have caused costly damage to his equipment. | SEE STORY

The Randolph-Sheppard Act gives visually impaired people the opportunity to own and operate a business on federal and state properties. The law authorizes the Vending Facility program, which designates individuals who are blind a priority when it comes to the operation of vending machines on government properties.