A man who was pet sitting for a woman in Fort Collins, Colorado, found himself on the wrong side of the law after he stopped communicating with the dog’s owner. The Fort Collins Police got involved in the situation and turned to social media for assistance in getting the dog, named Scholar, back. The authorities posted:
A local man is wanted for theft after offering to dogsit, then refusing to return the pet to its owner. We need your help finding them.
Explaining what had transpired, and how the pet sitter had essentially ghosted Scholar’s owner:
Patricia needed someone to watch her dog, Scholar, for a brief period of time. An acquaintance was dogsitting while she transitioned into housing that would allow pets. Her acquaintance couldn’t watch the dog for more than a few days, so he recommended a guy named Jesse (later identified as Jesse Beckwith). Patricia agreed, and Jesse took in Scholar. He initially shared updates with Patricia (see pictures) but then stopped communicating with her. When she tried to get Scholar back, Jesse refused to give her the dog and won’t return her calls.
On Thursday, the police let Facebook followers know that the pet sitter had a change of heart and Scholar was headed back home, writing:
PUPDATE: We are happy to share that Scholar was turned in to the Humane Society this afternoon. His very grateful owner has been notified and will be picking him up. Thank you so much to everyone who spread the word! We’re grateful for the incredible amount of care and compassion our community shows for people and their furry family members.
Chief of Fort Collins Police Patrol Division Kristy Volesky commented on the power of social media, telling KDVR News, “I have no doubt word got to Jesse because of the work of media and I think that that’s a neat thing,” adding, “He now will go to the court system and he can explain what happened and explain to the courts to the judge what his intent was of keeping him for so long.”
The pet sitter, Jesse Beckwith, could face a misdemeanor theft charge.
Follow the National Animal News Facebook page for more news, updates, and petitions.
I love people who love animals! Choose your favorite color and design at this link. Purchases help support the continuation of this site.
Find Joy in the Little Things! Choose your favorite color and style at this link. Your purchase helps the continuation of our site!
© Rescue Writers, 2016, All Rights Reserved
