Man arrested in connection to stealing service puppy

Police have arrested a man in connection to stealing a 3-month-old golden retriever service dog.

Investigators told WSB-TV that the suspect worked with the nonprofit that trains puppies.

The puppy that was stolen, Dorie, is training as a service dog with Canine Assistants to help people with disabilities. The orgnazation said she was stolen Sept. 2. in Milton, Georgia.

Milton Police said they interviewed several people of interest. They called one man, 34-year-old John Sears, back to their headquarters for a second time.

"When we called him back down to talk to him a little bit more, we were able to show that he was lying in the statement, and he eventually stated about half of what he had written down was false," said Lt. Charles Barstow, with the Milton Police Department.

Police believe Sears was involved in the theft, but they can't determine whether he took the dog, or was working with a dognapper.

Sears, who was arrested Wednesday, is facing a felony charge of false writings and statements.

Milton Police say Suwannee Police will also charge Sears for theft by receiving, another felony.

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