Local News in Brief : Probe Goes On Despite Return of Disney Art

Burbank police are continuing their investigation into the theft of 13 original drawings from classic Walt Disney films, even though the artwork was returned in a gift-wrapped package on New Year’s Eve.

Edwin Okun, vice president of corporate communications for Burbank-based Disney Studios, said police interviewed him Thursday about the theft, which occurred in the studio’s Ink and Paint building last week.

“I don’t know why they are continuing the investigation, but Disney has nothing further to say on the case,” Okun said.

The drawings, or “cels,” which are used in the final production of animated films, were from such Disney productions as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Bambi” and “Fantasia.” Disney officials said the cels are worth $5,000 each.

The cels were returned to Okun in a package wrapped in Christmas paper. “I’m sorry,” said a note attached to the package. “I didn’t think they had any value.”