A Southeast Houston pet store was robbed when a group of four, including two women, a man, and a young girl, stole three puppies, a turtle, and other pet items, as seen on surveillance footage. Adam Abidlatif, the store owner, explained that the group came earlier in the day and returned to steal. While one woman distracted employees, the others took the items, including a shih tzu puppy, which the child was forced to steal. Abidlatif said, “That’s very upsetting to see,” according to Click2Houston.
Following reports by KHOU 11, community support led to several tips. One woman, who was allegedly involved in the incident, returned one of the stolen puppies during an on-camera interview. Later, another man involved in the event returned the remaining two puppies.
The turtle and other stolen items remain missing. The store owner, Abidlatif, expressed concern for the unvaccinated puppies, stating, "They’re very vulnerable, right? They’re just like a baby," as mentioned by KHOU 11. The store has increased security measures, updated employee training, and restricted access to certain areas. Harris County Pct. 2 deputies are reviewing surveillance footage and believe they have leads, including a suspect possibly wearing an ankle monitor. Authorities are also investigating the involvement of a child in the theft and are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
