Police in York Region say that a 200-pound “distinctive” bronze turtle and four other statues were recently stolen from a park in Richmond Hill. The theft occurred at Lake Wilcox Park, which is near Bayview Avenue and Stouffville Road. Const. James Dickson said the incident was reported to police on Aug. 12, however they have yet to confirm when the statues were stolen. Police told CP24 that the turtle statue, which was crafted by artist Steve Worthington, was observed missing on Aug. 11. There are no suspect or vehicles descriptions at this time, Dickson added. ‘Especially troubling theft’: YRP Calling what occurred an “especially troubling theft,” Dickson said that while metal theft is “by no means new, damage of public art is particularly egregious because it victimizes an entire community.” “These sculptures are unique pieces that residents enjoyed. The reality is that by now they’ve likely been melted down,” Dickson said. “This appears to have been an opportunistic crime for personal gain, but its impact reaches far beyond the value of the metal. Someone knows where these sculptures went and who is responsible.” This investigation is ongoing and anyone with further information is asked to contact York Regional Police’s 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
