Baby Jesus Figure Stolen from Basking Ridge Lawn

Bernards Township police and the owners of a baby Jesus statue apparently stolen from a Nativity scene on the lawn of a home on Mount Airy Road are asking that it be returned to its place in the manger.

The figure was reported to be missing two days after Christmas from the front lawn of the home at 2 Mount Airy Road, which is near West Oak Street.

According to police, Patrol Officer Anthony Severino responded to a report that the owner discovered the figure to be missing when he went out to collect his mail at about noon on Dec. 27.

The large Nativity set reportedly has been facing Mount Airy Road, police said.

Police said that the owner told them the last time he saw the baby Jesus statue was some time on Dec. 25. The owner reportedly could not provide police with the name of any suspects.

The owner estimated the value of the stolen statue at $300.

"We would encourage the thief to return the Jesus to his manger," said Township Police Capt. Ed Byrnes.

Anyone with information also is being asked to contact Township Police Detective John Neiman at 908-766-1122. 

A photo shows a sign erected by the family asking for the figure to be returned.