A recent incident involving a New Jersey music store highlights a peculiar approach to rectifying theft, as an accused thief returned two stolen mandolins with a handwritten apology note. This story delves into the “how to” of making amends, even under unusual circumstances, and offers insights into the mindset of someone attempting to correct a wrong. The “sorry, I been drunk” note suggests a motive rooted in intoxication, prompting questions about responsibility and remorse.
The theft occurred at Lark Street Music, a store renowned for its vintage guitars. Video footage captured a man appearing to conceal two mandolins, a Gibson F-12 and a Weber Yellowstone, within his coat. The Teaneck Police Department confirmed the owner reported the incident on December 22, detailing how the suspect allegedly placed the instruments inside his jacket.
Bernard “Buzzy” Levine, the owner of Lark Street Music since 1981, was initially occupied with other tasks when the alleged theft took place. He recounted being at his computer, attending to emails or website updates, and did not pay close attention to the individual. It was only after the suspect departed that Levine noticed the empty spaces where the mandolins had been.
Featured snippet paragraph: The answer to “how to return stolen items after being drunk” in this case involved the thief surreptitiously returning the instruments in shopping bags with an apology note stating, “Sorry, I been drunk, Merry Christmas. You are good man.”
The music store later announced the successful recovery of the stolen mandolins, noting that the thief returned them an hour later. A Facebook post from the store included a photograph of the recovered instruments and the poignant, albeit ungrammatical, apology.
The owner described his reaction to the return as disbelief, calling it a “happy ending” to a bizarre situation. The value of the stolen instruments was significant, with the Gibson F-12 estimated at $3,500 and the Weber Yellowstone at $4,250.
Following the suspect’s departure from the store, the owner attempted to pursue him, but the thief managed to escape. The owner then contacted 911, initiating a police pursuit.
The store acknowledged the impact of social media engagement, suggesting that online pressure may have influenced the thief’s decision to return the items. The “walls were closing in” sentiment indicates a feeling of being cornered.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the suspected thief has been apprehended. His identity and the full extent of his motives are still subjects of investigation. The Independent has reached out to both the Teaneck Police Department and Lark Street Music for further comment.
This event raises questions about “what is remorse” and how it is expressed, particularly when influenced by external factors like intoxication. The unusual resolution offers a case study in “making amends” for criminal actions.
Comparing this to other “theft recovery stories” reveals a unique blend of criminal act and subsequent voluntary restitution, albeit with a clear admission of impairment.
The “best way to apologize for a mistake” might be debated, but in this instance, a direct return of goods coupled with a personal note, however flawed, was the chosen method.
For those interested in “crime news,” this incident provides a quirky twist on a common offense.
Thinking about “what to do if you steal something and regret it” might lead some to consider similar actions, though the legal ramifications of the initial act remain.
The “new jersey crime” landscape occasionally features such unusual occurrences, making local news captivating.
Understanding “the psychology of crime” can be complex, and this case offers a glimpse into a moment of apparent regret following an impulsive act.
This “crime explained” scenario highlights the unpredictable nature of human behavior and the potential for unexpected resolutions.
Investigating “how to get away with theft” is a common query, but this story demonstrates that even attempted getaways can lead back to the scene of the crime.
The “value of vintage instruments” is evident in the significant price tags attached to the stolen mandolins, underscoring the loss incurred by the store.
Exploring “legal consequences of theft” is crucial, as the apology note does not negate the original crime.
