A bizarre theft case in New Jersey has reached an unexpected conclusion after a suspected shoplifter returned two stolen mandolins worth thousands of dollars, accompanied by a handwritten apology blaming alcohol.
Theft caught on camera
The incident began on Monday 22 December 2025 at Lark Street Music, a vintage instrument shop in Teaneck. Owner Bernard "Buzzy" Levine, who has run the store since 1981, told CBS News New York he was distracted at his computer when the theft occurred. Surveillance footage from around 12:30 p.m. ET allegedly showed a man placing two mandolins into the deep inside pockets of his long winter coat.
The stolen instruments were identified as a Gibson F-12, valued at $3,500, and a Weber Yellowstone, worth $4,250. "I sort of ignored him totally. He leaves, and a few minutes later I looked up over there and there's two empty spaces," Mr Levine explained.
The chase and the unexpected return
After discovering the theft, Mr Levine gave chase. "I ran up to the door and saw him running down the street so summoning all my fleetness I took off after him. Not so smart, I lost him," he recounted, adding that the episode made him feel "like I'm in a TV movie." Police were alerted and began a search.
In a surprising turn of events, the store announced on Facebook last Friday that the mandolins had been recovered. "An hour ago the thief surreptitiously opened the front door and returned them in 2 shopping bags," the post stated. Included with the instruments was a handwritten note that read: "Sorry, I been drunk, Merry Christmas. You are good man."
A 'happy ending' for the store
The shop expressed gratitude on social media, suggesting public attention played a role. "Your re-posts and pressure definitely made him realize the walls were closing in," their statement said. Mr Levine told ABC News he "couldn't believe it" when the valuable mandolins were returned, calling the outcome a "happy ending."
As of the latest reports, it remains unclear whether the Teaneck Police Department have identified or apprehended the suspected thief. The authorities have not released further details on the individual's identity or motive. The Independent has contacted both the police and Lark Street Music for additional comment.
