RCMP return stolen painting to Kelowna business

Photo: RCMP

The Mona Lisa is back where she belongs - inside a downtown Kelowna business.

RCMP say the replica painting of the Mona Lisa was stolen from a downtown business Nov. 20.

After reviewing security footage of the incident, attending officers passed the information and description on to other Mounties in the detachment.

Five days later while on foot patrol, constables Gauthier and Boutin saw a man who fit the description of the thief.

The suspect admitted to the officers he was in possession of the painting, which was seized and returned to the owner.

“In this particular case, having the painting returned was more valuable to the owner than proceeding with charges,” says Cpl. Jocelyn Noseworthy.

“This is an example of our officers using their discretion to work towards the best end goal for the victim. At the end of the day, the painting is back where it belongs and the owners are happy.”