Suspect in Missouri dog-collar kidnapping feared to have more victims amid court delay
Updated
Police in southwest Missouri say they are looking for a suspect and that he may have more victims.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it is investigating the kidnapping of a dog near Mount Vernon, a town in St. Louis’ northern suburbs known for its small industries.
Police say the dog was taken at gunpoint in late December.
The suspect in the dog-collar kidnapping is described as a black man in his 20s who stands between 5′ 6″ and 5′ 10″.
Court records show he has been arrested for domestic abuse and trespassing.
A preliminary investigation is ongoing.
The FBI in St. Louis is assisting with the search.
“It’s been a long time coming, we are very relieved they’ll be home soon,” a family member who only gave his name as Jason said.
“It’s very emotional, we’re glad we have the dogs back. Our dogs are like family to us and we are very sad for them. We have no idea what they are going through,” he said.
The family says they are trying to move forward, with their lives, with their dogs and with the help of their community.
“I’m hoping, no that’s what’s hurting me right now but I’m hoping that they get out of here and we can move on,” he said.
The family said they have not had contact with their dog since December.
The family say they will be posting updates on Facebook.
“It’s been an extremely difficult time for us this last month and a half. We are trying to get to the bottom of why our dog was taken,” the family wrote.
“I just want them home. They have three kids, I am losing sleep, and I just want them home,” the family wrote.
Police say the suspect has been arrested twice for trespassing within the county.
The first charge was dismissed because it did not comply with Missouri state law. Court records show that case was dismissed in February.
The second charge was dismissed in December because he is awaiting trial for felony