NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. – A person who stole a sign nearly 30 years ago has returned it to the city of New Smyrna Beach, with $50 and an apology note.
The sign was received Monday at City Hall.
"(The sign reads, 'New Smyrna Beach says no to drugs,' and apparently this sign was stolen from us," said Lt. Shane Riggle, of New Smyrna Beach Police Department.
Riggle said the sign decorated the city in the 1980s.
"I remember it. It was during a time when Nancy Reagan had the 'saying no to drugs' campaign," said Selma Barker.
During that time, one of the signs went missing. Until now.
"I think it's fantastic. I think somebody's life has changed maybe for the positive and they're making amends with some things that they've done in the past," said Riggle.
Along with the sign, came an apology note and a $50 money order for reinstallation.
“Fathers of NSB, please accept this sign and funds to reinstall it, as well as my apologies. Sometime in the late 80s, I stole this sign in a fit of youthful exuberance. Forgive me!“ the note read.
"That is so cool! I'm glad that whoever did that thought to send it back," said Barker.
Police said now they're not sure what to do with the sign.
"Maybe we'll keep it in the police department as a reminder that people can change," said Riggle.
If not, Barker has another idea.
"It's a reminder that the city says no to drugs. I think it's a great sign and it ought to be put back up," Barker said.