[CPProt.net] Reward for solving icon theft increases

[MSN CPPnet]

Reward for solving icon theft increases
July 8, 2005

   The reward for the person who helps Walden police solve a string of
religious icon thefts is up to $1,250.
   Mark and Sara Merring offered $250. Their destroyed Virgin Mary sculpture
and grotto were recovered last week from Tin Brook, less than a mile away
from their home on Wileman Avenue. Just days before, another ruined Blessed
Mother statue was found in the brook near Hill Street.
   Barbara and Ernest Long added $1,000 to the purse yesterday. An Infant
Jesus of Prague statue was stolen from their yard last month but discovered
with minor damages behind Valley Central High School. 
   "My husband is still very upset," said Barbara. To him, the sculpture is
a tribute to a fallen friend and Vietnam comrade. To her, it's a memorial to
the brothers and sisters she lost in a drowning accident many years ago. The
candles she lights in their memory are still missing.
   Police said they have a few leads but have made no arrests. If you have
information, contact Walden police at 778-5595.