Outrage continues over Jackie Robinson's stolen statue as cops offer $7,500 reward for tips on thieves
WICHITA, KANSAS: The Wichita Police Department is reaching out to the public for assistance in catching those who stole the Hall of Fame baseball player Jackie Robinson's statue from a Wichita park on the night of January 24.
They are currently offering a reward of $7,500 for information leading to the apprehension of the culprits.
Notably, the theft of this iconic statue from a Wichita public park has not only irked the police department but has also drawn the ire of netizens.
Wichita Police Department seeks public help to catch the thieves of the Jackie Robinson statue
Law&Crime reports that authorities in Kansas are actively searching for individuals who, under the cover of night, removed a Jackie Robinson statue from Wichita's McAdams Park.
Surveillance footage released by the Wichita police shows a pickup truck believed to be involved in the theft. The perpetrators cut the statue at the ankles, leaving only Robinson’s shoes behind, and supposedly loaded the statue into the truck bed before making their escape.
The estimated value of the stolen statue is approximately $75,000.
At a press conference, Wichita City Councilman Brandon Johnson expressed dismay, stating, "When I received notification of this, one of the few times in life I’m speechless. This horrendous, disgusting act really caused me a pause. And it caused pause because of the impact no matter the motivation of those who were involved."
He further explained that the statue, crafted by artist John Parsons and unveiled in 2021 by League 42, was erected to benefit local kids playing baseball and to honor the legendary Robinson, who wore No 42.
The League 42 Foundation, which organizes the area's Little League baseball, is named in tribute to Robinson.
Troy Houtman, the Park and Recreation Director, expressed a range of emotions about the theft, stating, "I was wondering who would do such a thing? Who would actually take a statue of Jackie Robinson, an icon of baseball history?"
He added, "The impact of this theft is more than just the cash value of this statue. It has a huge impact in regard to the history of our community and the history of baseball. This theft is the opposite of everything Jackie Robinson stood for."
Law&Crime reports a $2,500 reward for tips leading to an arrest and an extra $5,000 for the statue's safe return, a total of $7,500. To provide information, contact Wichita police.
Jaclyn Evans, the Administrative Assistant of League 42 Foundation, launched a GoFundMe campaign to fund the replacement or repair of the statue.
Internet rages over the 'disgraceful' act of stealing the Jackie Robinson statue
As authorities work to recover the Jackie Robinson statue, netizens have taken to social media to share their opinions regarding the incident.
A Facebook user wrote, "That is a total disgrace catch these a******* He was a great man It is achievements a legendary SAD times."
Another noted, "This is disturbing at so many levels 😭," while a person added, "This world is truly a sad, scary place! People are unbelievable!"
One more remarked, "This is horrible and sickening! People jusr amaze me with their stupidity!"
Someone else expressed, "What is wrong with some people?? This is disgusting and so disrespectful. I hope they find the people and prosecute them."
"Just when you think People can't get any worse, they always out do themselves," chimed in a user.
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
