Stolen puppy returned to Wisconsin pet store days later, suspect identified and arrested

MADISON, Wis. (WFRV) – Nearly a week after a puppy was reported stolen from a southern Wisconsin pet store, employees spotted the dog in the same store, leading to the arrest of the suspect.

According to the Madison Police Department, Sugar, a puppy with missing toes, was reportedly stolen from Animart on April 30, along with other pet care items. Animart is located on East Towne Way in Madison.

Officers say the initial theft was caught on camera which helped authorities identify a suspect.

Around 3:40 p.m. on May 6, Animart employees called law enforcement, saying the stolen puppy was back at the store with a group of people. Employees recognized the dog due to it having missing toes on one of its paws.

The group of people with Sugar told responding officers that the dog was recently given to them. They returned Sugar to store employees once they were informed it was stolen.

The suspect, identified as Julie Hurley, 64, was later found in a wooded area off Lien Road. Hurley was arrested that same day for felony theft and retail theft.

No additional information was provided.