Bizarre Crime Spree: Wyckoff Teenagers Steal 200 Stuffed Animals from NY Amusement Park
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Wyckoff NJ, a bizarre caper involving a small boat, a midnight break-in, and bags full of plush toys has led to the arrest of a Bergen County teen and the identification of two co-conspirators.
New York State Police have charged Anthony Conkling, 19, of Wyckoff, New Jersey, in connection with a major theft and vandalism incident that took place at Rye Playland amusement park along the Long Island Sound in the overnight hours of September 23-24.
The Details of the Midnight Infiltration
According to police statements, the three young men—Conkling and two other New Jersey residents (ages 19 and 20)—executed a bold plan to enter the closed park:
- Stolen Boat: The trio allegedly took a small boat from a Connecticut boat club (which was later returned undamaged) and used it to arrive at the Playland beach.
- Fence Climb: They scaled a fence to gain access to the amusement area just before midnight.
- Vandalism & Theft: Once inside, the group committed acts of theft and considerable vandalism.
The Damage Report: $57,000 and 200 Missing Plushies
The consequences of the night’s mischief were severe, with damage to park property estimated at a shocking $57,000.
The trio’s alleged actions included:
- Mass Stuffie Theft: Stealing approximately 200 stuffed animals, which they reportedly hauled away in garbage bags.
- Major Vandalism: Breaking into an electrical room and ripping out fiber optic cables for the park’s phone and internet service.
- Attempted Destruction: Trying, but failing, to throw a heavy photo booth off the boardwalk.
Arrest and What Happens Next
Anthony Conkling surrendered to Westchester County detectives on Thursday and faces multiple charges, including: burglary, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, and petit larceny.
After being arraigned in Rye City Court, Conkling was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to return to court on November 25.
Police have stated that the two other New Jersey men involved in the incident have been identified and are expected to surrender to authorities soon.
Social Media Breakthrough: Public tips proved crucial to solving this case. Police had released photos in September showing the teens hauling away the stuffed animals, which drew massive attention and even amusing comments comparing the suspects to “two princesses dancing.”
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The Playland plunderers, plushie Pirates.