Physical Address

304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Flick International Dimly lit pet store interior with adorable bulldog puppies and a red plush toy

Colorado Pet Store Heist: Thieves Use Fake Seizure to Steal Precious Puppies

Colorado Pet Store Heist Involves Disturbing Distraction

Authorities are searching for multiple suspects in Colorado after a peculiar robbery took place at a pet store. In a method resembling a well-planned scam, a male suspect allegedly faked a seizure to divert the attention of store employees. This distraction allowed his accomplice to steal two bulldog puppies valued at $4,299 each from a display case, according to police reports.

The audacious theft occurred at Perfect Pets in Centennial on a Sunday afternoon, and the entire incident was captured on security video. One of the bulldogs was later returned to the store by a Good Samaritan. She purchased the puppy from a street vendor in north Denver for $1,500, showcasing the strange aftermath of this crime, as revealed by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office who announced the news on Tuesday.

Details Surrounding the Pet Store Incident

Security footage begins with Davis unexpectedly collapsing while browsing a display case. Store employees, along with a woman who seems to be a mother accompanied by her two children, rush to assist him. Little do they know that a second male suspect is already making a move towards the back of the store to execute the theft.

Swift Action and a Chaotic Escape

As staff attend to Davis, another suspect stealthily grabs two bulldog puppies from the display case. One of the employees, shocked by the unfolding events, exclaims, “Hey, what are you doing? Hey, no, stop, stop!” The video clearly illustrates the chaos that ensues as the suspect dashes towards the exit.

Amidst this pandemonium, the fleeing suspect knocks over an employee. Despite her attempt to stop him, he manages to retrieve the puppies and runs out of the store. A gold Cadillac Escalade, which pulls up shortly afterward, becomes their getaway vehicle. Both suspects hurriedly get inside the car, and it speeds away, leaving behind confusion and dismay.

Benevolent Act Leads to Reunification of a Puppy

Investigators revealed on Tuesday that a Good Samaritan returned one of the stolen puppies after recognizing it from news coverage regarding the theft. They released heartwarming photos showing store employees embracing the reunited dog. This act of kindness illustrates the community’s response to this unfortunate event.

The woman who returned the puppy disclosed that she purchased it from a street vendor in north Denver after spotting it in the news. Excited by her find, she promptly contacted the pet store, aiding their efforts to recover the stolen animal.

Investigation Continues as Police Seek More Leads

As the investigation unfolds, police have released descriptions of two suspects still at large: one is a black male dressed in a large black coat and sweatpants, while the other is a white or Hispanic male spotted wearing a blue and white beanie-style hat and exhibiting brown hair. This second man is identifiable in the store’s surveillance footage as he was seen grabbing the puppies.

Additionally, officials described the getaway vehicle—a gold Cadillac Escalade as having no license plates and heavily tinted windows, complicating their ongoing search for the crime’s remaining perpetrators.

Community Response and Business Impact

Perfect Pets operates as an independent, family-owned and operated pet store specializing in puppies, and this incident has raised questions about security and community safety. Bianca Larsen, the store manager, expressed her disappointment over the theft. She had intentions of selling one of the stolen puppies to a friend and the other to a nearby pet store owner.

Reflecting on the incident, she stated, “It’s sad that this puppy doesn’t get to live an amazing life with a deserving family and home instead because someone doesn’t have any morals.” This sentiment underscores the emotional impact the theft has had not only on the business but also on the community that values animal welfare.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Store Security

As the pet store continues to recover from this shocking incident, the management is likely re-evaluating their security measures to prevent future thefts. Enhanced surveillance and tighter security protocols could act as vital deterrents against similar incidents, while also ensuring a safer environment for customers and animals alike.

The story serves as a reminder of the lengths some individuals may go to for personal gain, inspiring both concern and a collective spirit among community members who cherish and protect their local businesses. The hope remains that all involved in this case will be held accountable and that the remaining stolen puppy will soon be recovered.