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In a strange criminal addition to the festivities of Mardi Gras, thieves targeted a renowned New Orleans bakery on January 24, stealing not just cash and a case of vodka, but also seven prized Mardi Gras–themed king cakes.
The New Orleans Police Department is investigating the bizarre burglary at Bittersweet Confections, which left the local community both stunned and amused.
“Our king cakes are just that good,” the bakery lamented on social media. “But please come and purchase one during our regular store hours.”
The incident occurred during the bustling and at times felonious Carnival season. Commencing on January 6, Epiphany, and culminating in the revelry of Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras combines both Christian and Roman customs.
King cakes, adorned with the iconic colors of purple, green and gold, are emblematic of Carnival in New Orleans. The pastry rings often conceal a tiny plastic baby, a cherished tradition that symbolizes luck and prosperity for the finder.
While the theft sparked concern and bemusement, the community rallied around Bittersweet Confections, offering support and solidarity during what should have been a festive period for the bakery.
The bakery’s owner expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, despite the burglary incident.
“Mardi Gras season is our most challenging time of year,” Cheryl Scripter reflected on social media. “While I was hurt by this invasion of privacy, the support of our community brought a smile to my face.”
However, some individuals took to social media to crack jokes about the incident.
“It was me…. I’m holding all 7 babies hostage until I get a lifetime supply of King Cakes from you every year,” one man joked.
The spirit of the New Orleans community ultimately shined through amid the adversity, as Scripter found solace in the support received from locals.
“The city of New Orleans is my home,” she affirmed. “The support of this community gave me the push I needed to finish Mardi Gras strong!! Thank you to everyone for supporting my bakery.”
The plot thickened a few days later, however, when an even more brazen king cake smash-and-grab occurred. On the night of January 29, a whopping 100 king cakes were stolen from the King Cake Drive-Thru’s delivery van in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans. The new distribution business, which sells cakes from local bakeries, was intending to bring the baked goods to a pop-up event in Meridian, Mississippi, the next day.
At press time, there was no word on whether police believed the two crimes to be connected.
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