Video captures Salvation Army kettle theft in Minnesota

BLAINE, Minn. (FOX 9) - The Blaine Police Department is hoping the public can help identify two people who stole a Salvation Army donation kettle from outside a Cub Foods.

Police Chief Brian Podany says the theft happened Tuesday around 2:30 p.m. It is unknown how much money was in the kettle at the time.

"Right away when it was referred to us was we have a Grinch out there, two Grinches," said Chief Podany. "That someone would do that, it's the principle - regardless of how much was in the kettle at the time. Why would someone do this to people? It's just disappointing."

Surveillance video shows two people wearing hooded sweatshirts walking up to the donation kettle at the Northtown Cub Foods in Blaine. One person appears to use bolt cutters to remove the bucket from its stand, while the other person keeps watch. Once the kettle comes loose, they take the kettle and run off.

Police released a photo of the suspects' vehicle, which appears to be a grey or silver SUV. The suspects are facing felony possession of theft tools and damage to property charges.

Major Robert Doliber with the Salvation Army says the bell ringer hadn't show up for his shift when the theft occurred and doesn't believe there much money was in the stolen kettle. Doliber also says crimes like this are not common, even though someone stole another kettle that was without a bell ringer in Oakdale on Friday.

"I think they need to think about the people they are stealing from and just have a heart and put a stop to it, turn yourself in," said Doliber.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Hale at (763)785-6168 or email him at thale@blainemn.gov.