A 7-foot yellow metal statue that went missing from the Bay St. Louis Depot Way has been recovered and returned, thanks to the efforts of local law enforcement and cooperation from the suspect.

The statue, a whimsical figure holding a mailbox and considered a unique piece of public art, was reported stolen on April 25 by the Hancock County Tourism Development Bureau. The Bay St. Louis Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division immediately launched an investigation into the theft.

Detectives quickly identified the suspect as Clint Jones, 37, of Saucier, Mississippi. With assistance from the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, authorities located Jones at his residence. Police say Jones cooperated fully and voluntarily returned the statue, which was found undamaged.

Jones has been charged with petit larceny and is scheduled to appear in Bay St. Louis Municipal Court.

The statue has since been returned to the Tourism Bureau, and police expressed their satisfaction in resolving the case. “We are excited to bring this unique piece of local art back home,” the department said in a statement.

The statue’s return was met with relief and enthusiasm by city officials and art lovers alike, who view it as a symbol of the city’s charm and creativity.