The family of a disabled man allegedly left locked inside a car at a Perth shopping centre on a 40-degree day has urged the public to raise the alarm if they think something is wrong.
Jefferson, 25, who lives with severe autism and is non verbal, was unable to call for help when he was allegedly abandoned in searing heat.
A male carer, 37, has been charged.
On January 13, Jefferson’s support worker drove him to Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre.
Police say the man parked and went into the shops about 1.40pm, leaving Jefferson alone in the back seat of the car.
The front windows were rolled down slightly, but the back windows were fully up.
As the temperature climbed beyond 40 degrees, Jefferson was unable to unbuckle his seatbelt or call for help.
He suffered in silence, allegedly for two and a half hours.
Shoppers eventually noticed him beating his chest in pain and an ambulance rushed him to hospital.
It’s alleged his long time carer was inside the shopping centre eating lunch.
Police claim the man also stole money from Jefferson’s wallet to pay for his meal.
Jefferson’s sister Fiona said the family was “shattered”.
“It breaks my heart to see my parents and how shattered they are,” she said.
“It’s so overwhelming and each day we think about it and process it more it gets harder.
“The main thing about this story is that we just want people to if you ever notice something is a bit wrong or have a slight inkling something is wrong always just report it.”
Cindy Wieman, who has worked with Jeff as an occupational therapist, said it was one of the worst stories she had heard in 23 years working in the sector.
Police have charged the 37-year-old with endangering life or health or safety and stealing as a servant.
He is due to face court in Joondalup next month.
