Comedian wants his hat back from fundraiser

Local well-known comedian Gallagher put on a show April 17 at Westlake High School to help educate teens about unsafe driving, drug abuse and other teen-related issues.

Stealing should have been part of the message, too.

After Gallagher’s performance on behalf of the nonprofit organization Regenerate, someone allegedly stole a raccoon head that was part of his costume wardrobe. Kids were allowed to come onstage and participate in Gallagher’s trademark smashing routine, and during the melee, the costume piece apparently disappeared.

Gallagher said he once had a hammer prop stolen during a performance in Rhode Island, but the item was later recovered by police. He hopes his beloved raccoon head will turn up once the thief starts showing it to his or her friends.

"It’s not nice to take Gallagher’s toys," the comic said. "I just don’t think it sends the right message."

As part of the show, Gallagher performed in a bear costume while a student wore the raccoon garb.

The comedian asks that anybody with information about the stolen costume contacts the Thousand Oaks Acorn via e-mail at tonewstip@theacorn.com.