Burglar returns money after 30 years

MIDDLEVILLE, Mich., March 19 (UPI) -- Authorities in Michigan said an unknown burglar sent a letter to the sheriff's office to return money stolen about 30 years ago.

The author of the letter said about $800 was taken from the Middle Mart, just north of Middleville, about 30 years ago, and he sent $1,200 to the Barry County Sheriff's Office with the hopes of having the stolen money plus interest returned to the owner of the store, WOOD-TV, Grand Rapids, reported Tuesday.

Barry County Undersheriff Bob Baker said investigators were able to track down the owner of the store, who sold the business in 1988. The store owner, who declined to speak to WOOD-TV, told deputies he was pleased to have the money back.

"He was shocked just as much as everybody else was, 'cause this just does not happen every day," Baker said.

Baker said the sheriff's office is not attempting to identify the sender of the money.

"From the legal standpoint, the time has gone by and especially if this has bothered you for 30 years, I think you've suffered enough," Baker said. "I would say that you've made amends."