The meteorite was confiscated by the Sylacauga police chief who then turned it over to the United States Air Force.[8] Both the Hodgeses and their landlord, Bertie Guy, claimed ownership of the rock, Guy's claim being that it had fallen on her property.[8] There were offers of up to $5,000 for the meteorite.[citation needed] The Hodgeses and Bertie Guy settled, with the Hodgeses paying $500 for the rock.[8] However, by the time it was returned to the Hodgeses, over a year later, public attention had diminished, and they were unable to then find a buyer.[8]