Yogi Bear statue recovered after Jellystone Park theft Friday

The giant Yogi Bear statue that welcomes visitors to the Jellystone Park in Pelahatchie was stolen on Friday night.  Although the statue has since been recovered, Jellystone manager Nikki Ammons is asking for the public’s help compiling evidence.

Pelahatchie police said that a pickup truck entered the park at approximately 11:42 p.m. on Friday, made a U-turn at the entrance and stopped near the statue.  It only took about 3 minutes for the suspect(s) to detach the statue, load it up and leave the property.

Early Wednesday morning, Yogi was found on Highway 43 just outside of Pelahatchie.  The statue is reportedly missing some parts.

No arrests have been made at this time, but Ammons says the police already know the names of the alleged thieves.  She is offering $1,000 cash reward to the first person who sends her a screenshot of the social media videos that were posted when the bear was stolen.

“These screenshots will wrap up everything and bring all this to an end so that we can proceed with arrests and prosecution,” she wrote.

“Thanks to everyone who shared the post and to the Pelahatchie Police Department,” Ammons said. “Stealing and trashing a $10,000 licensed statue is not a prank, regardless of who you are, it is a felony! If you feel more comfortable calling/texting me instead my number is 601-672-0084.”