URGENT UPDATE: A thief has made headlines by returning two stolen mandolins to a vintage guitar store in Teaneck, New Jersey, after a video of the theft went viral, accumulating hundreds of thousands of views. The incident, which occurred last week at Lark Street Music, has left the store owner, Buzzy Levine, astounded.
The theft took place when the suspect, caught on surveillance cameras, discreetly slipped the mandolins into his jacket. Levine recounted how the thief “looked around” before “putting it there” and then proceeded to take a second instrument. “It was only the second time since we opened in 1999 that someone decided to steal from us,” he told WABC.
After the theft was reported to the Teaneck Police, the store posted the video on their Facebook page, prompting widespread attention. Just four days later, Levine noticed a peculiar visitor who left something behind. “I saw someone opening the door, bending down, and then splitting,” he recounted. To his surprise, within the shopping bags left behind were the two stolen mandolins.
Inside the bags was a note that read: “Sorry I’ve been drunk. Merry Christmas. You a good man.” Despite this unexpected apology, authorities indicate that the man will likely still face charges for the theft.
In a post on social media, Lark Street Music expressed gratitude to its followers, stating that the viral attention “definitely made [the theft suspect] realize the walls were closing in.” This incident highlights the power of community engagement on social media, transforming a theft into a story of unexpected redemption.
As this story develops, it raises questions about accountability and the impact of social media in modern theft cases. Stay tuned for updates as authorities continue their investigation.
