Thieves Abandon Stolen Boat After Seeking Ransom

The thieves who stole a boat from an Annapolis dealership and sought ransom from the owner have since abandoned it in Baltimore. Annapolis police Officer Kevin Freeman said that the 17-foot Boston Whaler was found in a Baltimore harbor, stripped of the engine, controls, sun screen and cooler.A 17-foot Boston WhalerPolice said the thieves wanted Bart Hiltabidle, the owner of the Eastport dealership where the boat was stolen, to pay them ransom to get the boat back. In a note left at the dealership, they asked for $3,000. Hiltabidle said that thieves came back the next day and tried to steal a 15-foot boat. He said they carved "last chance" into the front door. Hiltabidle said he is currently increased security at his store and has added more locks.