New Kids Leave Town a Little Poorer After Theft

With hundreds of frenzied young fans screaming farewells, the pop band New Kids on the Block left town Saturday with a bang--but without $100,000 cash that was reported stolen along with their manager’s briefcase, authorities said.

Amid a near mob scene at the Bel Age Hotel in West Hollywood, someone allegedly stole the briefcase from the group’s business manager, James Rossi, 25, at mid-morning Saturday, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Rossi was checking out when he set his briefcase on the floor, only to discover it missing a few minutes later, deputies said.

Deputies said they were uncertain why Rossi had so much cash, and he could not be reached for comment.

About nine hours before the theft, deputies had to clear the hotel lobby of a crowd of about 200 to 500 teen-age girls. Many fans followed the group to the hotel after a Friday night concert at Dodger Stadium.

“I’ve been here three years,” said hotel weekend manager Talia Levin, “and I’ve never seen anything like this. It’s just like the Beatles all over again.”