Detectives with the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office are investigating a break-in at an Arabi business where a handcrafted artwork vanished and fresh graffiti was left splashed across the storefront. The missing piece, described by authorities as "Dueling Oak New Orleans City Park," was reported stolen after deputies responded to the scene on Wednesday. Several parts of the building were found tagged with spray paint, and investigators say the vandalism may be connected to the theft.
According to detectives, the call came in from a business on the 7200 block of North Peters Street, which reported both the burglary and the missing artwork. A post authored by Sheriff James Pohlmann states that detectives with the Criminal Investigations Bureau responded to the call and are now leading the investigation. The department is urging anyone who knows something to speak up, according to the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office.
What Was Taken
The sheriff's post notes that the Dueling Oak piece took more than a year to create and is valued at about $7,500. Detectives say they are reviewing surveillance footage and following up on witness tips in search of leads. "The artwork took more than a year to complete," the post reads, according to the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office.
How To Report Tips
Anyone with information is asked to contact the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office at (504) 271-2501 or the Criminal Investigations Bureau tip line at (504) 271-8477. Callers may remain anonymous, and tips may be eligible for a cash reward through Crimestoppers Greater New Orleans at (504) 822-1111. Guidance on anonymous tips and rewards is available from Crimestoppers GNO.
Why the Dueling Oak Matters
The Dueling Oak is a longstanding City Park landmark tied to 19th century dueling lore and the park's canopy of live oaks, which helps explain why artwork that references it carries local significance. Materials from New Orleans City Park highlight the park's collection of mature live oaks and the Dueling Oak's role in park history, underscoring why the symbol resonates with many residents, according to New Orleans City Park.
