OSSIPEE — A reward for the safe return of three cats stolen from the Lakes Region Humane Society animal shelter is $3,000, the humane society has posted on Facebook.
The cats were apparently taken between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. on June 23. The shelter s located at 11 Old Route 28, which is off Route 28 in Ossipee.
The reward began with $500 commitment from the shelter, then the family that fostered the cats said they’d match that $500. A longtime donor then pledged another $500. Then an anonymous donor pledged $1,500, bringing the total to $3,000.
According to the shelter, the trio of stolen cats consists of April, a gray and white 2-year-old spayed female; and Lasagna and Gnocchi, 9-week-old male kittens that are mostly black.
The shelter says Gnocchi has an umbilical hernia that needs to be surgically removed.
“We believe we have a strong lead on the identity of the suspect, but at this time, there is not enough evidence for law enforcement to press charges,” said the humane society. “The individual captured on video appears to be a female, approximately 5’3”, 120–140 pounds, wearing a light-colored hoodie, dark backpack, short shorts, sneakers and a surgical mask.”
The cats were strays who came from three different locations, said the LRHS.
“Staff and volunteers are devastated, adopters who were scheduled to welcome these cats into loving homes are heartbroken, and our daily operations — including veterinary appointments — were interrupted as we handled cleanup, replaced a broken window, worked with police, compiled reports, contacted insurance, and inventoried animals,” the LRHS said.
Reached Monday, Ossipee Police Chief Donald Babbin said they don’t have anything “concrete” yet. Helpful information can be directed to the LRHS at 603-539-1077 or Ossipee Police at 603-539-2011.
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