Suspect in theft of football signed by Jerry Rice turns himself in

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Monday, April 17, 2017

SAN FRANCISCO -- A California man suspected of stealing a football autographed by formerSan Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jerry Ricehas turned himself in and returned the ball.

The San Francisco Chronicle reported Sunday that 45-year-old Patrick Van Lam went to a San Jose police station Saturday after seeing viral photos of himself on social media taking the ball at a charity auction.

The ball went missing after it was purchased for $3,500 at an April 9 fundraiser to benefit Chinese orphans with special needs.

The newspaper reported that Van Lam was arrested on suspicion of burglary and grand theft.

Police say a second man helped Van Lam take the ball.

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