Update, May 31, 12:02 p.m.: Welcome home, Callista!
The Washington Humane society says the kitten stolen from a WHS adoption center last weekend has been recovered.
From a media release:
At approximately 5:30 pm last night, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) came to Callista’s rescue, retrieving the kitten from a residential address in DC and promptly returning the kitten to WHS. MPD launched a thorough investigation after viewing video surveillance footage from the adoption center which documented suspicious activity in the area where she was housed. Callista’s case is now a matter for the courts. Additional information will be released as it is available for the public.
WHS is urging the courts to prosecute the offender to the fullest extent of the law.
“I couldn’t be more pleased with the Metropolitan Police Department. They took this case seriously for what it was, a theft and a criminal act,” Lisa LaFontaine, WHS President & CEO stated, adding, “We can rest easy knowing that Callista will continue to get the care she needs as she awaits adoption into a responsible and loving home. And our community can rest assured that all animals in our care are precious members of our family, regardless of size, species, or age – and we will do everything possible to protect them.”
WHS says that it's received lots of calls from people who want to adopt Callista since news of her abduction went out. Those looking for a kitten of their own are urged to visit washhumane.org/adopt.
The previous report: The Washington Humane Society is offering $1000 for the safe return of Callista, a kitten stolen from a WHS adoption center on Sunday afternoon.
According to WHS, Callista is about 8 weeks old.
“It’s hard to believe someone would stoop so low and do this” said Scott Giacoppo, the Vice President of External Affairs for the group, in a statement. “Our adoption process is so easy, it only takes a few minutes and in the end your pet is completely vaccinated, spayed or neutered and you have a long-term relationship with our organization in case you ever need help,” he goes on to say.
WHS spokesperson ChristieLyn Diller told The Huffington Post that the animal welfare group doesn't yet have leads on who may have stolen Callista from the New York Ave. NE adoption center, but is reviewing security footage.
WHS is asking anyone with information about the missing kitten to please call 1-202-576-6664.
