WATCH: Philly police release footage of Union League thief

Early Monday morning, a man walked up the stairs to the ritzy Union League, ripped out a 6-foot portion of the brass railing and made off with it. Now, police are asking the public to identify the suspect in this bizarre crime that happened just blocks from City Hall.

“He is seen on tape walking down Broad Street to Moravian, and he hid it behind some dumpsters for a minute,” a spokesperson for the Union League said, explaining the move was likely to divert attention. “Later, he is seen on camera coming back for it and leaving with it … he seemed to struggle [holding the railing].”

The incident inflicted severe damage to themembers-only club’s facade. The area was taped off Monday afternoon, and by Tuesday had netting and more barriers to prevent the public from entering.

The suspect has only been described as a black male in his 40s or 50s, of a thin build and wearing a dark hooded jacket and jeans. He is lastseen on the tape heading west onSansomStreet.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Central Detectives at 215-686-3093/3094. Tips can be submitted by phone at 215-686-8477 (TIPS) or via text to 773847 (PPD TIP). Tips can also be submitted anonymously by an electronic form at www.phillypolice.com.