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After Concern For Dog's Well Being, Woman Steals Pet

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Farmington woman is charged with theft after police say she stole a dog that was left in a vehicle.

Police say 22-year-old Stephanie Hrncir initially called police around 11:37 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2010 to check on the welfare of an Australian Shepherd that was left in a vehicle outside Shenanigan's Pub in Rosemount.

Officers responded and made contact with the owner who said he would take care of his dog. Police say the dog did not appear to be in any stress and was happy and healthy.

A short time later, dispatch notified officers that Hrncir called several additional times in reference to the dog being left in the vehicle. The officer called Hrncir and informed her that the dog was fine and she did not need to be concerned.

At 3:19 a.m., the owner of the dog called police to report his dog had been stolen from his vehicle. He said he purchased the dog for $1,100.

He said he was in the bar for about an hour, came out and found his dog was missing.

Law enforcement tracked down Hrncir's address, based on her repeated calls of concern, and went to her home. She told the officer she knew why they were there and admitted to taking the dog.

She said she took the animal because nothing was being done and she believed it was cold. Hrncir said she was going to keep it as one of her pets.

Police returned the dog to its owner. Hrncir faces one count of theft.

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