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Photos Of Petco Dognapping Suspects Released [UPDATED]
The two suspects were caught on camera at Petco before stealing two puppies. (Photo courtesy of LAPD)
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Police have released photos of two suspects who stole puppies from a Petco adoption event on June 16.
Los Angeles police are asking for the public's help in identifying the two men who stole two Chihuahuas and punched a volunteer who tried to stop them.
The men entered the Unleashed by Petco store at 7228 W. Sunset Boulevard about 3:30 p.m. and asked about pet adoption.
One of them took the two dogs from their cages and tried to leave. A volunteer confronted the men and was punched in the face by one of the them. Both fled the scene.
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The first suspect is described as being in his late 20s, about 5' 9" tall and 170 pounds. He was wearing a red shirt, black pants and white shoes.
A second suspect is estimated to be 38 to 40 years old, about 5' 9" tall and approximately 190 pounds. He had rotten teeth and was wearing a white T-shirt, black shorts and white shoes.
Whitney Smith, who works for the adoption group, Pet Care Center, told LAist that up to five people were involved in the dognapping. The other thieves apparently did not enter the store and so were not caught on surveillance video. According to Smith, they were assisted by an older woman driving a blue van.
The stolen dogs are named Lucky and Lola, both black and white Chihuahua puppies who Smith says need more vaccinations.
Anyone with information about the case is asked to call detectives at (213) 972-2909 or the watch commander of the Hollywood Division at (213) 485-4328.
Alex Tiraki of Pet Care Center is offering $1,000 reward from her own pocket and a Petco employee said that Petco is also offering a $1,000 reward. If you have information, call Petco at 323-851-0133 or Whitney Smith at 213-369-4333.
UPDATE, JULY 3, 12:15 P.M.:
Police have amended the description of the suspects. They now believe the two men they are looking for are Hispanic and not African-American.
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Related:
Volunteer Assaulted, 2 Puppies Stolen At Petco Adoption Event
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