Bizarre Pleasanton Mannequin Theft: Apology Note, $200 And Creepy Reference To 1987 Movie

PLEASANTON, CA — A mannequin stolen from a Pleasanton women's clothing store last week has been returned in a bizarre and utterly creepy turn of events. Kim Gapol, owner of KJCouture on Main Street in Pleasanton, said she thought the odd theft might be a joke, but since the unexpected return of her mannequin, the incident has become downright disturbing.

On Sept. 14, Gapol said she opened her business and noticed the mannequin was missing from her window display. When she investigated the window area, she discovered a cryptic note and $200 cash inside. The note said “Sorry for stealing/buying your statue she needed a better home you should consider better security. Love Hollywood.”

After checking with her staff to make sure the theft was not a joke, she called the police to make a theft report. Mannequins can cost between several hundred to a thousand dollars, according to Gapol.

Several days later, the mannequin, dressed in entirely different clothing, was returned and discovered outside the store's side doors. Gapol said there was no trace of the suspect, who left another disturbing note that said “Hollywood was a complete gentleman.”

Gapol said she suspects the notes are referencing “Mannequin,” the popular 1980s movie and modern day Pygmalion myth. In the movie, the character responsible for dressing and undressing the mannequin was named Hollywood Montrose. Regardless of why the mannequin was taken and returned, Gapol said she has stepped up her store’s security.

Photos courtesy Kim Gapol