“You gotta be the coolest dog ever,” said a bicycle thief in San Diego, Calif., after giving a golden retriever belly rubs and before rolling away on stolen wheels.
Surveillance footage released last week by the San Diego Police Department shows the suspect – a white male – enter a residential garage at around 10:40 p.m. July 15. As he tried to leave the garage, the dog trotted up to the man and lightly jumped up on him.
“Hey, buddy,” said the suspect with a chuckle. He then led the dog back into the garage as it wagged its tail.
At that point, it appears as though the suspect might have decided to abandon taking the 2019 black Electra 3-speed bicycle (worth approximately $1,300, according to police), as he leaned it against some shelves. He then pet the dog, and brought their faces together.
“You’re the coolest dog I’ve ever known,” he said. “I love you too. You’re a sweetheart. I want you to come home.”
Then, the dog rolled on to its back for some belly rubs.
“Where’s your dad?” the suspect asked as he complied, also muttering something about leaving the garage door open. The dog… didn’t answer… and its family did not appear to hear the interaction. After some more petting, and kisses from the dog, the alleged thief eventually asked the canine why it had so much stuff in its house.
He then resumed the plan of taking the bike. Surveillance footage shows the golden retriever running after him into the Pacific Beach neighborhood, but the thief was still at large as of Aug. 3.
“The San Diego Police Department needs YOUR help in identifying a burglary suspect,” said authorities. They also said what the suspect stole “isn’t your average bike; it’s distinct, featuring ‘8-ball’ caps on the tire valves, an ‘8-ball’ logo on the frame, and a rear wheel frame marked with a checkered black and white pattern.”
Video shows that the suspect was wearing a blue and white hat, gray shirt, blue shorts, and orange athletic shoes. He was also carrying a black and blue backpack.
Police ask that anyone who recognizes the man in the garage or who has seen the bike since July 15 contact the department, as new details may help them identify the suspect.
Unfortunately, this is not the only dog-related news out of San Diego recently. Early this month, the police department announced its K9 officer Sir was killed in the line of duty. He was a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois.
“We are genuinely touched by the outpouring of support and condolences we’ve received,” said the San Diego Police Department Aug. 2. “Together, we will remember K9 Sir, celebrate his life, and honor his heroic service.”
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