2 Charged With Dognapping, Puppy Recovered
DEERFIELD BEACH (CBS4) – Broward Sheriff's detectives have arrested two accused dognappers who swiped an expensive puppy from a Deerfield Beach pet store and recovered the puppy as well, however, one suspect remains on the loose.
According to BSO, William Metzger and Jessica Tucker are in custody for the theft which took place Thursday, August 11th at the Petland store, located on 3964 W. Hillsboro Boulevard, just before 7:30 p.m.
Deputies say Metzger, Tucker and a third man, came into the store and asked to see several dogs. When the employee became distracted, one of men left the store holding a male Maltese puppy. Police say the puppy is worth $1,150.
The crime was captured on surveillance video.
Metzger and Tucker have been charged with Grand Theft.
Deerfield Beach resident Brian Hargrove says he found the puppy wandering in a park and took it to the BSO Deerfield Beach substation.
"I see the dog wandering the streets and I'm concerned, I coach peewee football, so I brought it here, I'm an honest man."
Danny Bondar of Petland came to the BSO substation with a scanner and verified that the puppy belonged to the store.
The dog had a microchip for identification.
"He looks in good health but we'll take him to the vet and see what happens," said Bondar.
BSO deputies are still looking for the third suspect.
This is the fourth dog theft at this store in three years and the third dog recovery.
If you know anything about the crime, please call Broward Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS.
