Los Angeles police are seeking the public’s help in identifying two men who broke into a family’s home and stole four purebred Yorkshire Terrier puppies, as well as the family’s pet dog, at gunpoint.
Around 9:30 p.m. on Feb. 23, 2007, two men posed as prospective buyers at the home in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles. When a woman opened the door, one suspect pulled a gun and the robbers forced their way in.
“The family had advertised the Yorkshire Terriers in a newspaper. It appears the suspects answered the ad, knowing the value of the puppies,” LAPD Lt. Paul Vernon said.
The family’s surveillance system captured the home invasion on tape, and they hope its release will result in the return of their own dog, Tan-ja.
Surveillance video shows the perpetrators forcing the family to kneel on the floor while one robber rounded up the puppies. They placed the four puppies and the family dog in a black trash bag and left in a silver car.
No one was injured in the robbery, but the family is most concerned about the loss of Tan-ja, whom they have had for over three years.
“This robbery is a good lesson to residents that soliciting buyers to one’s home can be a risky practice. When soliciting sales from home, it may be better to meet prospective buyers at a neutral place where there are lots of other people around,” Vernon said.
The dognappers were described as black or African American, medium height and in their mid-20s. One appeared to be about 150 pounds, while the other was slightly heavier, according to police.
Detectives say they believe the suspects could strike again. Anyone with information can call LAPD robbery detectives Webster Wong or Ron Kim at (213) 922-8205. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at (877) 529-3855.