Stolen Applegate Park Zoo sign found in home after 6-month search
Authorities say the 32-year-old man they believe stole the signs wasn't there during the search of the home.
MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- There was a happy homecoming in Merced for a beloved sign stolen six months ago.
On Tuesday, employees of the Merced Applegate Park Zoo reclaimed the original wooden bear plaque that once greeted visitors to the zoo.
It had been missing since February when someone removed it from its spot on the side of a building outside Applegate Park.
Police and the city's mayor spent months searching for the sign, but the case seemed to grow cold.
Two months ago, a replacement sign was installed.
Then, a few weeks ago, detectives say they received a tip from a concerned neighbor.
During the execution of a search warrant for stolen property, they found two signs inside a home.
They say the bear sign was still intact, hanging on the living room wall for display.
Authorities say the 32-year-old man they believe stole the signs wasn't there during the search of the home.
They are not identifying him right now but have issued a warrant for his arrest.
