A recent spate of metal thefts plaguing Vallejo, including the loss of a statue near city hall, has prompted officials to place other public art items into storage for safe keeping.
The recent thefts include a bust of Francisca Benicia Carrillo de Vallejo, one of three other statues on a fountain between city hall and Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library, city officials said Thursday.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the other two statues were placed into storage until we can enhance security and safe guard the area prior to returning them to public display,” the city said in a news release.
In addition, Vallejo’s ‘City Hall’ sign on its front brick wall has been taken down after a few letters were stolen.
Handrails in front of City Hall were also taken, but quickly replaced by the public works department.
“Metal theft continues to be an issue that plagues the city and staff will continue evaluating options to enhance security and find alternative locations for art display,” the city said.
Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to report it to police.