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Caught On Tape: 2 Grinches Steal, Vandalize Family's Christmas Decorations

LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE (CBS) — One grinch wasn't enough. Police in La Canada Flintridge are on the lookout for two grinches...well, actually make that two young men in baggy sweatshirts.

Officials say the two young men vandalized a family's outdoor Christmas decorations and display. But the decorating-damage-duo might not have the last laugh. The homeowner caught the act on tape.

The home, on Indianola Way, was decked with stuffed animals and a holiday sleigh.

The home's owner put the video on Youtube. A copy is also in the hands of Crescenta Valley Sheriff's detectives.

Two young men are shown exiting a silver-colored SUV. They're then seen tugging on the display before running away. They quickly return, tug some more, dislodge at least one of the stuffed animals before breaking the sleigh.

The resident was home at the time of the vandalism.

Detective Todd Sams says the case is being treated as both vandalism and petty theft.

He says, "It's not the crime of the century. But this resonates with people. To put up decorations only to have them vandalized is not cool. It's very un-holiday like."

Damage (as well as the loss of the stuffed animal)  is estimated at about $550.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about the incident or anyone who might recognize the youth in the video, to call them at the Sheriff's Station at (818) 248-3464.

(©2010 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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