A clown associated with Rock for Brains was arrested after allegedly stealing geodes valued at thousands from a high-end art center in Rye. Reports indicate that Kyle Fawkes, 27, attempted to sell the stolen items on Facebook Marketplace.
Fawkes was apprehended on Tuesday during a scheduled meeting at Harbor Island Park in Mamaroneck, just outside Rye. Unbeknownst to him, he was dealing with an undercover police officer.
The New Rochelle resident reportedly took several geodes from the Rye Arts Center’s exhibit about a week prior to the incident. According to the Rye Police Department, the collection is estimated to be worth around $10,908.
Facebook users who often buy and sell items flagged Fawkes’ suspicious listing, leading to the investigation.
The geodes were originally donated to the art center by local benefactor Robert R. Wiener. Since the center lacks outdoor surveillance, police are primarily relying on tips from the community.
While nine geodes were reported missing between March 20 and March 23, it remains unclear exactly how many Fawkes had when he was arrested.
Adam Levi, the executive director of RAC, expressed his dismay over the incident, noting that the geodes bring joy, especially to children who visit the garden. He expressed hope that the thief might reconsider and return the stolen items.
Fawkes faces charges of third-degree criminal theft and possession, with a potential sentence of up to seven years in prison. He was released on his own recognizance and is due back in court on April 9.
The geodes have been taken as evidence and will be returned to the Rye Arts Center once the investigation concludes. The theft is still being looked into.
