$6,270 in lost cash returned to California man thanks to neighbor

Jan. 23 (UPI) -- A California man who lost $6,270 cash had the money returned to him thanks to the kindness and honesty of a neighbor, authorities said.

The Nevada County Sheriff's Office said on social media that a member of the public contacted the office Wednesday to report "he had found several personal possessions in the front yard of his Nevada City home, not belonging to anyone at his residence, along with loose cash scattered on his property, amounting to $6,270."

Deputies were able to identify the owner of the loose cash thanks to the other items involved.

"His cash and items had been in a satchel, but it was left unsecured in error and had fallen out on his walk home," the post said. "The man retraced his steps after realizing what had occurred but was unable to find his money and items."

The owner's family told the sheriff's office the return of the money and other possessions was "a dream come true and prayers answered."

"The Good Samaritan serves as a reminder that doing the right thing doesn't require recognition -- only compassion and the willingness to act," Operations Capt. Rusty Greene said. "In a moment when it mattered most, he stepped up and showed how small choices can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others."