Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto is owning up to the mistake he made in how he handled one of his firearms.
A thief broke into the sheriff's vehicle in Metairie shortly before 5 a.m. Friday and stole Lopinto's personal handgun. Sheriff Lopinto has warned residents in the past that leaving guns in cars is dangerous because that is often how criminals steal them.
"No excuses, I forgot," the sheriff posted on his personal Facebook page. "As Sheriff, I often lecture about the dangers of leaving your vehicles unlocked and certainly leaving firearms in your vehicle."
The sheriff says if they come across anyone selling a .380 handgun to please let authorities know.
"I want it back," said the sheriff, "it was a gift from my wife."
Anyone with information is asked to call the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office investigations bureau at (504) 634-5300, or Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111, or toll free at (877) 903-7867 (STOP).
Callers to Crimestoppers do not have to leave their names and may be eligible for a cash reward.