Teen who stole tablet from woman in wheelchair sentenced to 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 years

SEATTLE -- A Juvenile Court judge on Friday sentenced a 17-year-old boy who stole a computer tablet last year from a wheelchair-bound woman at Northgate Mall to 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 years.

The teenager pleaded guilty to theft and illegal possession of a firearm and other crimes. The 17-year-old apologized to the victim, Carolyn, but she said later that she did not believe the apology was sincere. She said she would pray for him.

The teenager said he gave the "Nook" tablet to another thief with him that day at the mall and hasn't seen him since.

Prosecutors did not charge the 17-year-old as an adult because they say the case would just be kicked back to juvenile court by the judge.

Seattle Robbery detectives say the teen was identified by Q13 FOX News and Washington’s Most Wanted viewers.

The victim, Carolyn, believes she was targeted because she couldn’t fight back.

"I don't think it was all about my disability but I think that was a factor,” she said. "They obviously are in their own world and don't have any compassion for anyone."

She is grateful for the huge outpouring of support from the community.

“I was really excited and happy and glad that people would stand up for me,” she said.

Her husband bought her a new tablet but she says she appreciates the offers from everyone to get her a new one.

The second suspect has still not been identified.

If you know his name, Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000. Call 1-800-222-TIPS.