The Great Gnome Heist: A Tale of Theft and Karma in Laramie

Gnomes like Mr. Gnome are a staple in many gardens, but one Laramie resident’s garden was left feeling bare after a thief struck.

In a bizarre incident, a garden gnome named Mr. Gnome was stolen from Melissa Desiervo’s garden in Laramie, Wyoming. The gnome, a colorful fixture in Desiervo’s garden, had been watching over her plants for over two years. Its sudden disappearance left Desiervo feeling sad and angry.

“Someone very rudely stole my garden gnome,” Desiervo posted on the Laramie Classifieds Facebook page. “People suck. Sigh.”

A photo of Desiervo’s garden shows the empty spot where Mr. Gnome once sat, surrounded by other ornaments.

Desiervo’s post sparked a wave of support from the community, with many offering to replace the stolen gnome. One kind stranger, Lydia Mullins, even gifted Desiervo a new gnome to take Mr. Gnome’s place.

“I was so happy about that,” Desiervo said. “Just making this post about a missing gnome is kind of silly, but I was angry.”

The incident highlights the sense of community in Laramie, where strangers can come together to support one another. Desiervo is grateful for the outpouring of support and is looking forward to painting her new gnome.

As for the thief, Desiervo believes in karma. “I can’t imagine what adventures he’s off to now, but I hope he’s not smashed,” she said.

The new gnome, courtesy of Lydia Mullins, will take Mr. Gnome’s place in Desiervo’s garden.

The story serves as a reminder that even in the face of theft and vandalism, community and kindness can prevail.

The Power of Community

The incident also highlights the importance of community and the impact that one person’s actions can have on others. Desiervo’s post sparked a wave of support, with many offering to replace the stolen gnome. The incident shows that even in a small town like Laramie, community can come together to support one another.

A symbol of community support, a new gnome takes its place in Desiervo’s garden.

The story of Mr. Gnome serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, community and kindness can prevail.