A Portland-based band wants to send the Chicago Police Department a special thank you for recovering some of their $80,000 worth of gear stolen at Lollapalooza.
"Thank you Chicago PD and don't be offended when we send a pile of doughnuts over," Portugal. The Man posted on Facebook.
Following the band's Lollapalooza set on the last night of the festival, their van and trailer full of instruments and sound equipment were stolen from an attended parking lot near Grant Park. The van was soon recovered, but all the gear was missing.
Police on Tuesday charged a Chicago man with a felony count of theft for allegedly knowingly purchasing stolen equipment for $1,000.
Prosecutors allege Juan Ocampo, 39, of the 4800 block of S. Throop bought a guitar, drum and keyboard from a man he didn't know at a Chicago Swap-O-Rama, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Ocampo later bought more equipment from the man, agreeing to pay $500 up front and another $500 once some of it was sold, assistant state’s attorney Erin Antonietti said at his bond hearing Tuesday. Ocampo planned to sell it slowly because he told police he was scared to sell it all.
Ocampo was ordered held on $10,000 bond.
It's partial closure for Portugal. The Man, whose stock of missing equipment included vintage guitars, synths and pedals. They hope the donuts convey their thanks to police.
"We are understanding in its simplicity," the band posted. "Its like a marathon runner eating a stack of pancakes before the run. It is much needed energy in your long days of crime solving."
"Much respect."
The band also thanked its social media following and locals who helped spread the word. The case remains under investigation.
