Authorities in Encinitas are investigating the daylight theft of two Labradoodles from a parked vehicle, an incident captured on surveillance footage that has since circulated widely online.
Esma Bohannon, the owner of the dogs, reported that the incident occurred while she was completing errands in the Southern California coastal city on Thursday.
The missing animals are identified as Coco Chanel, a 7-year-old Labradoodle, and Taco, a 3-year-old Labradoodle.
According to Bohannon, she left the dogs inside her vehicle with the windows rolled down for ventilation and provided a water bowl for their comfort during her brief absence.
Surveillance video from the scene shows two unidentified women approaching the parked car in broad daylight.
The footage depicts the women opening the vehicle door and removing Coco Chanel first, followed by Taco.
The suspects then placed both dogs into their own vehicle before driving away from the location.
Bohannon expressed shock and distress upon returning to find her vehicle empty and her pets missing.
Despite both dogs wearing identification tags engraved with Bohannon’s phone number, she reported that no one has contacted her regarding their whereabouts.
Local animal shelters have confirmed that neither dog has been surrendered or located within their facilities as of late Thursday afternoon.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department is currently reviewing the video evidence and is requesting assistance from the public to identify the two individuals seen in the recording.
Public reaction to the footage has been significant, with social media users expressing frustration over the brazen nature of the theft in a public parking area.
Pet owners in the region are being reminded by local authorities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving unattended animals.
The investigation remains active as law enforcement officers work to track the suspects' vehicle through additional traffic and business cameras in the surrounding Encinitas area.
Anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspects or the current location of the dogs is encouraged to contact local law enforcement immediately.