A man pleaded guilty to cutting down a pine tree at the airport, saying he did it because he couldn't afford to buy a Christmas tree.

Police said they cracked the case because Bart Bellin dropped his checkbook at the scene. Officers went to his apartment and found the tree.

Bellin, 30, was scolded by the judge in court for the Nov. 28 incident outside Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

"This is a Christmas tree for a blessed time of year," said District Judge Sara Smolenski. "... What were you thinking?"

"It was a foolish choice," Bellin told her. "I wish I could take it back."

He said it took only a few minutes to cut down the 6-foot tree with a handsaw.

Bellin pleaded guilty to larceny and destruction of property. Sentencing is Feb. 8.

The tree was turned over to a ministry, which gave it to a family.

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