WARREN, Mich. — A missing dog case in southeast Michigan has turned into a criminal investigation after police say a 21-year-old man attempted to hold a family’s pet for ransom before officers recovered the animal.
Warren police say the case began when a family reported their dog, Diesel, missing after it escaped from a fenced yard. The family posted on social media in hopes of finding the animal, but investigators say that post quickly drew unwanted attention.
SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS LED TO RANSOM DEMANDS
According to Warren Police Detective Daniel Toth, the family soon began receiving fake text messages and phone calls from individuals claiming to have found the dog.
One message sent to a family member allegedly claimed the dog had been purchased for $600 and demanded payment for its return.
“We wanted our dog,” owner Leslie Richardson said, describing how the family searched for Diesel for several days before the situation escalated.
POLICE SAY SUSPECT DEMANDED MONEY FOR DOG
Investigators identified a suspect as 21-year-old Lemarzay Tolbert, who allegedly told the family he had obtained the dog off the street and would return it only in exchange for money.
Detectives tracked Tolbert to his residence, where they heard a dog barking inside.
When officers arrived, they say Tolbert initially refused to surrender the animal.
“This gentleman wanted to work out something financially for the return of the dog,” Detective Toth said.
DOG RECOVERED, ARREST MADE
Police say Tolbert was taken into custody after leaving the residence. He has been charged with receiving and concealing stolen property.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said the case crossed into extortion territory, describing it as an alleged ransom attempt.
“They were holding the dog ransom for a certain price,” Lucido said. “With technology we have today, you will be found and you will be prosecuted.”
FAMILY REUNITED WITH PET
Diesel was safely returned to his family following the police investigation.
Richardson said the outcome brought relief after days of uncertainty.
“We are glad to have our best friend back,” he said. He also urged others to be cautious when dealing with strangers online, especially involving missing pets.
BOTTOM LINE
What began as a routine missing pet report in Warren quickly escalated into a criminal case involving alleged ransom demands—ending with a police recovery operation and an arrest.
Authorities say the case serves as a warning about scams and exploitation tied to social media posts about lost pets.
