Does This Ring A Bell? Raid Turns Up Unusual Stolen Item: Deputies Need Help Cracking The Case

LOS ANGELES, CA — Authorities on Thursday put out an unusual call — sheriff's investigators are looking for the owner of a large bell that was recovered during a recent search warrant operation.

The item — which the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department described as "what appears to be a large ceremonial brass bell — was found during the execution of a search warrant on November 10.

"Based on its appearance, size, and weight, investigators believe it was likely stolen for its non-ferrous metal composition and potential scrap value," the LASD wrote this week.

The Southland has been plagued by metal theft in recent years, in which thieves have stolen everything from light writing on the Sixth Street Bridge to catalytic converters, and sell the metals for scrap value.

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Investigators are seeking additional information about the bell to assist with the investigation, with the hopes that sheriff's authorities can turn the bell over to its rightful owner.

Anyone who recognizes the bell, or can provide information about its ownership or potential theft, is urged to contact Detective C. Gentner at 562-946-7893.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers online or at 800-222-8477.