NEWARK, NJ – A New Jersey woman is making a heartfelt plea for the safe return of her stolen puppy following a bold theft that has left her family devastated. The incident occurred when Isabella Borges, who was walking her dog along Merchant Street in Newark, was approached by a man who expressed interest in her Pomeranian puppy. Under the guise of wanting a closer look, the man managed to convince Borges to let him hold the dog before swiftly escaping with the puppy.
Surveillance cameras in the Ironbound neighborhood captured images of the suspect, who approached Borges on a sunny June afternoon. The footage shows the man engaging Borges in conversation, which she initially thought was a genuine inquiry from a potential buyer. Her assumption quickly turned into shock as the man handed the puppy to a child seated in the passenger seat of his silver Mercedes SUV and drove away.
Borges, who was accompanied by her two children at the time, was walking three dogs when the theft occurred. The suspect, described as a middle-aged man with jet-black hair and a distinctive gold tooth, reportedly used the pretense of calling his wife to distract Borges before making off with the dog.
The stolen Pomeranian, valued at approximately $2,000, was one of several puppies bred for sale by Borges and her family, who run a pet care business called Pit Crew. The business specializes in grooming, pet sitting, and selling specific breeds to families who pass a rigorous application process. Borges emphasized that potential buyers must demonstrate their capability to care for the puppies properly.
The sudden disappearance of the young puppy, which has not yet received all its vaccinations, raises concerns about its health and safety. Borges expressed worry over the thief’s lack of knowledge regarding the puppy’s dietary needs, sleeping habits, and necessary vitamins, which are crucial for its well-being.
The Newark Police Department is actively investigating the case and is urging the public to assist in identifying the suspect. Anyone with information about the incident or the whereabouts of the puppy is encouraged to contact authorities.
As the search for the stolen puppy continues, Borges remains hopeful for its safe return.