Sheriff's investigators Thursday were hoping an image of an item seized during the service of a search warrant will ring a bell with someone and help put it back in the hands of its legitimate owner.
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The item is, in fact, a large ceremonial brass bell.
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department investigators did not disclose where or when the bell was seized, nor in what type of operation, but detectives said they felt it was not legitimately possessed when they came upon it.
"Based on its appearance, size and weight, investigators believe it was likely stolen for its non-ferrous metal composition and potential scrap value," according to a department statement.
The scrap value doesn't add up to much. According to scrap metal buyer Greener Recycling, in the L.A. area, brass fetches anywhere from $1.20 to $3.70 per pound, depending on its type and composition.
The sheriff's department is seeking additional identifying information about the item in an effort to return it to its rightful owner.
Anyone who recognizes the bell or has information regarding its ownership or possible theft was urged to contact the Metro Detail of the LASD's Major Crimes Bureau at 562-946-7893. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-8477, or online at www.p3tips.com.
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