Full Breakdown
Thief Returns Stolen Mandolins with Apology Note in New Jersey
12/30/2025, 12:07:35 PM
Incident Overview
On December 22, 2023, a man was captured on surveillance video stealing two mandolins from Lark Street Music, a vintage guitar store in Teaneck, New Jersey. The instruments, a Gibson F-12 valued at $3,500 and a Weber Yellowstone worth $4,250, were taken when the suspect concealed them in his winter coat. The store's owner, Bernard “Buzzy” Levine, reported the theft to the Teaneck Police Department shortly after the incident.
Return of the Stolen Instruments
Four days later, the alleged thief returned to Lark Street Music and left the stolen mandolins in shopping bags at the store's entrance. Accompanying the instruments was a handwritten note that read, “Sorry, I been drunk. Merry Christmas. You are good man.” Levine expressed his disbelief at the return, stating, “I couldn’t believe it. This is like some kind of weird movie that has a happy ending or something.”
Social Media Impact
The store had previously shared the surveillance footage on social media, which garnered significant attention. Levine noted that the online engagement likely pressured the thief to return the instruments, stating, “Your re-posts and pressure definitely made him realize the walls were closing in.” The store's Facebook post announcing the return of the mandolins highlighted the community's role in the recovery.
Police Investigation
Despite the return of the mandolins, no arrests have been made as of yet. Christopher Kurschner, captain of investigations for the Teaneck Police Department, confirmed that the case is still under investigation. The police have not disclosed the identity of the suspect or any potential motives for the theft. They encourage anyone with information to contact the department.
Criticism & Opposition
While the return of the mandolins has been met with relief, some community members have expressed concern regarding the lack of immediate legal consequences for the suspect. The incident raises questions about accountability and the effectiveness of community pressure in deterring theft.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I couldn't believe it. I said, 'this is insane.' This is like, some kind of weird movie that has a happy ending or something,” — Buzzy Levine, Owner of Lark Street Music
- “Sorry, I been drunk, Merry Christmas. You are good man.” — Note from the suspect
What's Next
The Teaneck Police Department continues to investigate the incident, and charges against the suspect are anticipated. The case highlights the intersection of community engagement and law enforcement in addressing theft and recovery of stolen property.
