Wynnum: Huge twist in case of pet dog Arnie found dead in ‘stolen’ car
Police have dropped a bombshell in the investigation into the death of beloved pet dog Arnie in the back of an allegedly stolen vehicle, charging his owner.
The German shepherd was found dead in the back of a black Toyota Hilux on Monday after a massive week-long search in which the police enlisted the help of the public to find the vehicle.
His family, who had launched a social media campaign and offered a $6000 reward to find him, wrote of their heartbreak on hearing he had been found dead.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“We are beyond devastated he didn’t deserve to go like this!!” they wrote on a Facebook page set up to find him.
“We had the best life with him and he is going to be so missed.”
Earlier, the family had pleaded with the offender, or anyone who found Arnie, to return him, no questions asked.
“Our sole desire is to have Arnie back home. We do not seek retribution or punishment. We implore you to demonstrate compassion and humanity, allowing Arnie to reunite with his loved ones, they wrote in a separate Facebook post.
“It is not too late to make things right. You have the power to bring this situation to a positive conclusion.”
But, in a stunning twist, Queensland Police now say the vehicle was never stolen.
Instead, they allege the male owner drove the vehicle into Amelia Street in Fortitude Valley and left the vehicle on foot with Arnie inside.
They say the next morning the male owner told his partner that the Hilux had been stolen from a Wynnum home.
“The female owner subsequently reported the matter to police. Investigators will allege that the woman was not aware that the vehicle had not in fact been stolen,” a police statement read.
Arnie’s 43-year-old male owner has now been charged with one count of breach of duty of care of animal by failing to provide under the Animal Protection Act.
“Police are aware this has been a highly publicised case, and offences of this nature may cause distress and upset members of the public,” the statement read.
“The Queensland Police Service (QPS) requests that the public are respectful of the matter’s progression through the courts.
“The QPS takes animal care seriously.
“Any reports of a breach of a duty of care towards animals will be taken seriously and fully investigated.”
The matter is expected to appear before a Brisbane Court next month.
