First 2 Baby Jesus thefts reported

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Police in Schaumburg, Ill., said they have received their first two reports of Baby Jesus figurine thefts of the season.

Investigators said the plastic Jesuses, which are valued at about $20 each, were taken from two local homes -- one from a front porch nativity scene and the other from a yard display, the Chicago Tribune reported Thursday.

"It is generally a prank and it's disappointing that people would damage or steal holiday decorations, of all things," said police spokesman Sgt. John Nebl. "Unfortunately some folks see this as humorous."

Jeff Wishnew said the disappearance of Jesus from his family's front yard nativity scene has left his 3- and 6-year-old children distraught.

"They were definitely upset by it," Wishnew said. "We're not ready to kill any kid who took it and wouldn't press charges. We'd just like to get it back."

Nebl said police have not yet determined whether the two thefts were linked.