A resident's tree was taken hostage and is being held for ransom. (full article quoted below)

A 6-foot-tall bald cypress tree planted on a Berkeley neighborhood street has been stolen -- allegedly for purposes of pubic safety.

The man who planted the tree says he's received two ransom notes since the tree went missing about a month ago.

The notes say the tree will be returned if the man who planted it promises not to replant it in the same place. The tree-napper says the tree obstructs the views of drivers in the area.

The owner says he is in negotiations to free the tree.