MT. WASHINGTON, Ohio (WKRC) - A story of give and take in Mt. Washington -- that's where the owner of a toy store says a thief first took, but then ultimately gave even more than he took after a nudge through social media. Sherry Smiley is particular when it comes to the merchandise inside O'Smiley's Dolls and Collectibles. She knows exactly what's on her shelves.
"Two guys that came in wanting to trade toys, which is the normal thing, people wanting to buy and sell," Smiley said.
There is surveillance footage of the alleged toy traders inside the store. Smiley says they worked together to distract her and block her view before grabbing an expensive item.
"They made four trips out to the car, but on the second, on the second, you know, 'I forgot my wallet.' That was kind of the clue," she said.
When the men left, Smiley got the feeling toys were missing. She watched the surveillance back and her suspicions were confirmed.
"While we were showing one the item, the other one was behind our backs stuffing his shirt," Smiley said.
The two thieves took about 20 toys. In order for O'Smiley's not to press charges, they had to come back in and make it right.
"I basically gave them the 24 hours to come back and return everything," said Smiley.
But she asked for one more thing.
"We told them we would like $600 apiece. We figured that was a great deal because we've went through this before with court costs, lawyer fees," she said.
The thieves returned what they took and paid up. But, instead of using the money to stock her shelves, Smiley plans to give some kids a very merry Christmas.
"We'll just give it back. So there are several kids we've already got lists for that we'll make them a happy Christmas," she said.
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