Police Search for Stolen 80-Pound Laughing Buddha Statue

Police are searching clues that will help them determine who stole a large, “laughing Buddha” statue and—perhaps more importantly—why.

 The statue disappeared from the lawn of a Jessica Drive residence sometime between June 30 and Sunday, according to Manassas Park Police reports.

 The concrete Buddha stands about 4-feet tall and weighs between 80 and 100 pounds and is valued at about $300, Manassas Park Police reports show.

 The “laughing Buddha” is an important part of Buddhist and Shinto culture.  He is also known as the celestial Buddha named Pu-Tai, who is traditionally based on a Chinese Zen monk who lived more than a millennium ago, according to the website, religionfacts.com

 Depictions of the laughing Buddha often include a protruding belly, which is a symbol of abundance.

 He is often depicted carrying a sack full of good things, such as candy. The sack is said to never empty.

 Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call the Manassas Park Police Department.