[ad_1]
Jackie Robinson Statue Stolen from Kansas Park in Brazen Theft
Thieves in Kansas have stolen a prized Jackie Robinson statue from a public park, leaving only the iconic baseball player’s feet behind. The theft took place at the League 42 baseball fields in McAdams Park, just one week before the start of Black History Month. Surveillance footage shows at least two people toppling the hefty statue and loading it into a silver pick-up truck.
City officials believe the criminals plan on selling the statue as scrap metal. The statue cost the city upwards of $100,000 to install in 2021, and officials say its sentimental value is even higher. Troy Houtman, the Director of Parks and Recreation, expressed his outrage at the theft, stating that it goes against everything Jackie Robinson stood for.
The park has been dealing with a string of vandalism in recent months, and the thieves apparently struck during the night. In response to the theft, officials are offering the opportunity to return the statue “no questions asked.” The Wichita Metro Crime Commission is offering a reward for tips leading to arrests and the statue’s recovery.
Despite their frustration and anger, city officials are determined to repair the statue and are hopeful that the thieves will realize the consequences of trying to sell it and will return it. The theft has been widely condemned by officials and the community, and a reward of up to $2,500 has been offered for information leading to the arrests of the thieves.
Source
Photo credit nypost.com
