RICHMOND, VA—Two therapy dogs stolen from local disabled veterans were reunited with their owners Wednesday, and police have arrested both women wanted in connection with the thefts.
Police arrested and charged Tess A. Fisher, 20, of the 1100 block of West 43rd Street, Wednesday. Rachel A. Steinman, 19, turned herself in to police Thursday morning. Both have been charged with two counts each of grand larceny and obstruction of justice.
It was a happy reunion Wednesday, when Glen Moris was reunited with his therapy dog, Spot, after being separated for five days.
"I just thank the Lord I got him back," said Glen Moris. "That's all I can say, it's just so hard for me."
The dogs, Fatty, a black and tan colored Chihuahua, and Spot, a black and white colored Jack Russell terrier, were stolen Friday.
Detectives said the dogs were taken from outside Hilltop Promises, located at 2 East Broad Street, while their owners worked inside the store.
Glen Moris, Spot's owner, said he left the dog outside the store, but when he went outside to check on the dog, he was gone.
Spot was recovered Wednesday afternoon, as Fisher was taken into custody. Fisher allegedly took the dog to Richmond Animal Control.
"I'm going to take him home and keep him in the house for a while," said Moris about Spot. "He is just like my kid."
The other dog, Fatty, had already been recovered. Both dogs were being used as therapy dogs for local disabled veterans.
Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers at (804)780-1000.
Copyright 2012 by Young Broadcasting of Richmond
