Dorset Police investigate attempted dog theft in Bournemouth

An attempted theft of a dog in a Bournemouth park is being investigated by Dorset Police.

The owner, a woman aged in her 70s, was walking her French bulldog in King’s Park between 2pm and 2.10pm on 2 July.

She was reportedly approached by a woman who asked to pet her dog, before she knelt down and attempted to take it.

An altercation between the victim and the suspect ensued, and following an intervention from two members of the public, the suspect ran off in the direction of the Vitality Stadium.

The suspect is described as 5ft 4ins tall, and aged in her 50s with long brown-blonde hair. She was wearing a navy-blue tracksuit and white trainers.

Police Constable Paul Humber, of Bournemouth police, said: “This has been a very distressing experience for the victim and we are carrying out a number of enquiries to try and locate the suspect.

“I would like to hear from anyone who witnessed a woman matching the given description in the park at the time of the offence.

“I would also like to speak to the two members of the public who intervened and helped the victim, as they may have information that can assist with our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240099867.