Portland police announced Saturday that they have recovered 72 of the 100 miniature horse figurines stolen from a rental vehicle parked in a paid lot off 10th Avenue, across from Powell’s Books. The theft, which occurred earlier this week, prompted a swift police response and a community‑wide effort to locate the missing pieces.
Arrest and charges
On Wednesday, officers arrested 39‑year‑old Benjamin Moore in connection with the theft. Moore faces five counts of “theft by receiving,” a second‑degree theft charge, and two additional warrants. Police have not yet filed a charge for the car break‑in itself, but continue to seek information about any remaining figurines.
Victim’s story
The owner, Molly Worek, traveled from Idaho to Oregon to attend the Route 66 Model Horse Show in Tigard. Over two decades, she hand‑crafted a collection valued at roughly $10,000, though she describes it as priceless. “And what’s especially heart‑breaking is yesterday was the first time I’ve ever won a Best in Show, and that model is also one of the ones that was stolen,” Worek told FOX 12.
Community response
After the theft, reports surfaced of a man distributing horse figurines near Powell’s Books. Worek asked anyone who received a figurine or sees them for sale to contact her at [email protected], offering to reimburse shipping costs for any returns.
Following media coverage and social‑media alerts, police received a tip that led to the recovery of the majority of the collection. Some figurines have also been returned directly to Worek.
Ongoing investigation
Police continue to investigate the case and are asking the public for any additional information about the remaining figurines. The investigation is being tracked under case number 26‑324486.
What residents can do
Anyone with information about the missing items or who may have witnessed the theft is urged to contact the Portland Police Bureau’s non‑emergency line. Community members are also encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity in parking areas and public lots.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
