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I am happy to report an "up-side" to current events involving thefts,
deceptions and scams. The short story: An attempt was made to sell the
$65,000 worth of maps stolen from Jim Hess of the Heritage Map Museum in
Miami in February. DeBry's Virginia and a Schedel Europe were presented for
sale to Bette and Jon Rubini, map and print dealers in South Miami.They
recognized the material immediately as that listed as stolen. With courage
and integrity, they led  the young man on, got a phone number and called the
police. The police, impersonating as map collectors, arranged a meeting with
the thief. In a hotel lobby, the thief presented the De Bry map and said he
had alot more in the trunk of his car. (Of course, these were inherited from
his grandfather.) He was immediately arrested and placed in jail. One month
later, the thief was arrainged and plead guilty to dealing in stolen goods.
He received 6 months probation and 50 hours of community service! But, the
good news is that the maps were released from 'evidence status,' and they
were returned to the Heritage Map Museum immediately. Big thanks are due to
the Rubinis and the Miami Police Department; and, also, to the many people
who quickly shared information about this theft. I think it is important
that in events, such as these, quick communication amongst peers is
essential if one is to be hopeful at all in seeing their treasures again.
 
Jim Hess