News Summary
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Jayla Gittens from Charlotte, NC, faces the agony of losing her French Bulldog, Julio, after both her car and dog were stolen. The alleged thief is now demanding a ransom of $1,000 for Julio’s return. The local community has rallied to support Gittens, sharing her plight on social media in hopes of a safe reunion. Meanwhile, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is investigating the incident, emphasizing the troubling rise of dognapping in the area.
Charlotte Woman Desperate to Get Her Dog Julio Back
In a troubling incident that has left the community shaken, a woman from Charlotte, named Jayla Gittens, is going through a nightmare scenario after both her car and beloved dog, Julio, were stolen from her apartment complex two weekends ago. The situation took a dark turn when Gittens discovered that the alleged thief is demanding a ransom for the safe return of her pet.
Car Gone, Dog Missing
Gittens was in the process of moving when her vehicle was stolen, and tragically, her six-year-old French Bulldog was inside. While the car was later recovered, the search for Julio continues with no success. Dubbed the “thief,” the person who took Gittens’ car has made it clear that they are unwilling to return her furry friend without a price. They reached out to Gittens with a shocking demand of $1,000 for Julio’s return.
A Disturbing Demand
Searching for a Safe Return
Official Help Steps In
In response to this distressing incident, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) is involved in the case and has released a photo of an individual they wish to speak with regarding the theft. Their investigation aims to not only bring the thief to justice but also to help Gittens regain her precious pet, who has been her loyal companion since puppyhood.
The Rise of Dognapping
Protecting Pets from Theft
A Heartfelt Bond
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Trump Proposes New Taxpayer Benefit Plan
Additional Resources
- WBTV: Charlotte Woman Claims Alleged Dog Thief Is Holding Her Dog Ransom
- Google Search: dog theft Charlotte
- WSOC TV: Woman Says She Has Video Alleged Dog Thieves
- Encyclopedia Britannica: dog theft
- Country 103.7 FM: French Bulldog Thefts Surge in Charlotte
- Google News: dog theft Charlotte 2025
- WCNC: French Bulldog Thefts in Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
