Businesses in this state, take note: There may be a mad rush for the nearest water fountain.

After witnessing a man filching nickels, dimes and quarters from a fountain in front of New York’s city hall,  police have said the practice of taking coins from the fountain isn’t against the law.

Taking money that was meant as a gesture of good luck or wish-making might not be illegal, but the company who handles plumbing and maintenance for the fountain says it sure is odd. “I’ve never seen it happen. I find it really odd,” the company-owner said.

One potential wrinkle: “Unless there are other varying factors, like public drunkenness, then it’s not a crime,” said a police spokesperson. So, if you’re going to make a profit by hijacking the wishes of others, you’ve got to be dead sober while doing so.

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Tags: Good luck, New York, Public drunkenness, Water fountain