A Charlotte resident is caught in an emotional and bizarre extortion case involving her stolen French bulldog, as reported by several local news stations. Jayla Gittens' pet, Julio, was inside her vehicle when it was stolen from her apartment complex. Following the car's recovery without her beloved dog inside, Gittens claims she was contacted by the individual who allegedly stole Julio, demanding a ransom for the dog's safe return.
In a distressing twist, Gittens has been receiving messages via social media, along with a video sent to her brother, which show the suspected thieves driving her car with Julio in the backseat. "Essentially trying to hold my dog for ransom," Gittens described in an interview with WCCB Charlotte. The theft, which has escalated into a demand for a $1,000 ransom, has led to Gittens offering a $500 reward for the safe return of her pet. Gittens expressed her anguish, stating, "Seeing that, it really, really angered me."
The situation received additional publicity when Gittens shared, in an interview with WSOC-TV, that she had obtained footage of the alleged culprits with her dog. Gittens has embarked on a campaign through social media to spread the word and received "very weird comments" and offers from those claiming to have her dog. In her frustration, she said, "The things that they have said to me, and they know what they have said to me. It made me angry; it made me frustrated, and it just made me want them to be held responsible for what they’re doing because I know that they'll do it again."
While the ordeal is taking an emotional toll on Gittens, she also expressed relief in seeing her dog alive. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Charlotte Crime Stoppers are currently involved in the case. Charlotte Crime Stoppers has released a photo of a person who is being sought in connection with the theft, and they're also offering a cash reward for information leading to an arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and if your tip leads to an arrest, you could qualify for a cash reward. "I just really miss my dog and I really want him to be ok," Gittens told WBTV.
