The head of Clifford the Gifford Gator placed on principal's porch

CALEDONIA (WITI) -- The head of Clifford the Gifford Gator, which was removed from the front of Gifford Elementary School in Caledonia and taken in March, was placed on the front porch of Gifford Elementary School Principal Leslie Hunt's home around midnight on Monday, April 14th.

According to officials, the head had extensive damage. It is unknown who placed the head on the porch.

Clifford the Gifford Gator vandalized

Unknown suspects removed and took the head of Clifford the Gator -- the elementary school's mascot.

School hasn't quite been the same since.

"We were all shocked at first and I think it was a disgrace to the universe," fourth-grader Ryan Michael said.

Students were happy to learn on Monday the head has been returned.

"I announced it (Monday) morning and I could hear the cheers all over the building, so they are very happy. We are hoping to repair it back to the way that it was before, but we're just really happy that it's back," Gifford Elementary's Assistant Principal Gayle Titus said.

"To get it back, even if it's not in the best condition is better than to not have it come back at all," Gifford Elementary parent Emily Thurmann said.

This isn’t the first time Clifford's head was removed.

“In 2005, vandals cut his head off and it was subsequently returned and reattached to Clifford,"  said Lt. Gary Larsen of the Caledonia Police Department.

"It's just pure vandalism. It's disrespect to the kids and parents who send their kids here," Gifford Elementary parent Kenny Michael said.

If anyone has any information, they are urged to contact Lt. Brian Wall at 262-835-4423 ext. 139.

Clifford the Gifford Gator