Grinchy Theft Ends with a Happy Return in Cedar Hill

Jefferson Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Cedar Hill residents were reminded of the holiday classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas when a life-sized Grinch decoration was stolen shortly after Christmas.

The festive figure, a staple of one local family's holiday display, disappeared in a real-life echo of Dr. Seuss’s tale. While the theft left the owners disheartened, the story took a turn worthy of Whoville. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office received the report, and word of the crime quickly spread on social media. Soon, a sharp-eyed Jefferson County snowplow driver spotted the Grinch decoration half-buried in the snow by the side of the road. Displaying none of the Grinch’s mischief, the driver stopped, retrieved the decoration, and turned it over to the authorities. On Tuesday, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office reunited the festive fugitive with its rightful owners, restoring their holiday cheer.

The identity of the decoration thief remains a mystery, but officials suspect the culprit's heart may have been "two sizes too small." Anyone with information about the theft is encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 636-797-6210.

For now, the Grinch is home, just in time to remind everyone that even a heartless crime can end on a high note.