Police in Oklahoma are seeking the public’s help identifying several potentially stolen dogs and locating their owners after they were recovered along with dogs recently stolen from a veterinary clinic.
The Duncan Police Department said the investigation began when Minson’s Veterinary Hospital was burglarized sometime between 6 p.m. on July 30 and 5:30 a.m. on July 31. Items stolen included a computer, a mini fridge, pet food, leashes, medications, two pet cremations, and three small dogs named Gracie, Opie, and Pepper. Police shared images of the dogs on social media on July 31, seeking tips from the public.
At around 4 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 2, police responded to an alarm and report of burglary in progress at a business in the area of Main Street, and officers saw two juvenile suspects in the area who “fled when contacted.”
Police determined the juveniles’ identities and continued their investigation at a nearby residence with the consent of the homeowner. There, they found “a significant amount of stolen property connected to multiple recent burglaries throughout Duncan.”
Duncan Police Department
Both juveniles were taken into custody. Among the stolen items recovered were Gracie, Opie, and Pepper, who were quickly reunited with their owners.
Seven additional dogs were located at the residence, however, and police are investigating whether any had been reported missing or stolen.
“Before we work with partnering agencies to find new families for these dogs, we want to ensure they aren’t missing or stolen,” police said.
The department shared images of the dogs, seeking information from the public. Anyone who recognizes any of the dogs is asked to call 580-255-2112.
“We want to thank our community for the overwhelming support, the tips that were provided, and the many people who shared information about the stolen dogs. Your assistance was invaluable and once again demonstrates what can be accomplished when a community works together with law enforcement,” police said. “The investigation remains active as detectives continue working to identify additional victims and recover any remaining stolen property.”