If the thief or thieves are found, Garlington said he won't press charges. It was unbelievable, he said, that someone would "risk their livelihood" for his art.

"Honestly, you never would expect this kind of thing to happen," Garlington said. "It was a weird day. First Michael Jackson dies, then this. I just can't wait to see how the story develops."

Anyone with information is asked to call the Concord Regional Crimeline at 226-3100. Anonymous tips can also be made online at concordregionalcrimeline.com, or text by sending TIP234, along with a message, to CRIMES (274637). Crimeline awards cash to anyone whose information leads to an arrest and indictment.

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