A larger-than-life statue of former U.S. President Ronald Reagan has been removed from Bonita Canyon Sports Park in Newport Beach, California after it was damaged by vandals.

The crooks attempted to steal the bronze statue using a chain and truck, according to Newport Beach police. City crews have since removed the statue because it was leaning forward and to the left.

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“Either someone really didn’t like Reagan or they tried to steal it so they can sell it for scrap metal,” police Sgt. Kirk Jacobi explained.

A witness told police that the failed thief was seen driving off in a tan pickup truck with an extended cab.

The statue was dedicated on Oct. 9 in honor of Reagan’s 100th birthday.

Watch this video from KCAL, broadcast Nov. 6, 2011.