Suspect Arrested for Theft and Vandalism of Jackie Robinson Statue

A 45-year-old man, Ricky Alderete, has been arrested in connection with the theft of a bronze Jackie Robinson statue in Kansas, which was later found smoldering in a trash can. The theft was not deemed a hate crime, but rather an attempt to sell the metal for scrap. Alderete faces charges related to the theft and a separate 2022 case, and more arrests are expected. Donations have poured in for a replacement statue, and the nonprofit behind the original sculpture plans to use the extra funds to enhance programming and facilities.