Officers investigating suspected dog theft in West Dorset make arrest
Officers investigating a suspected dog theft in West Dorset have made an arrest and are continuing to appeal to the public for information.
It is reported that between 11.30am and 12.30pm on Monday 8 December 2025, a red Cocker Spaniel named Gerry disappeared from a kennel outside a residential address in Hilfield.
Following searches by officers and a media appeal, Gerry was located safe and well near Cerne Abbas on the morning of Wednesday 10 December 2025, and was returned home.
Officers have been carrying out enquiries into this incident and have now arrested a 34-year-old man from Poole on suspicion of theft. He remains in police custody at this time.
A vehicle has also been seized in connection with the incident.
Police Constable Chandler Organ, of Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We are continuing to make enquiries into this suspected theft and I would ask anyone who has any information that may assist our investigation to please get in touch.
“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who witnessed a white pickup truck acting suspiciously in the Hilfield area on the morning of Monday 8 December 2025.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250180617. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
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